1. No category

March 2013
HIGHLAND CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
2.0
How to Be:
....Becoming who He wants us to BE
from
the
cover
Becoming who
we were made
to BE
When you stop to think about it, becoming is a complex and glorious
process. In any application, whether in our individual lives or in
organizational growth, becoming involves both grace and sovereign
provision. It requires human activity: practice, discipline and decision.
“Becoming” begins with honest self examination and assumes the need
for change. “Becoming” begins with waiting and results in motion. It is
content but never stagnant. No matter our state in life - student, teacher,
parent, grandparent or friend of Highland Christian - becoming is part of
our daily lives.
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
Contact us
3040 Ridge Road, Highland, Indiana 46322
219-838-0356
www.highlandchristian.org
Principal
Ms. Deborah Benson
Executive Secretary
Jody Moes
Director of Recruitment
and Development
Jodi Lineburg
School bell layout
Christina Woo
2 schoolbell March 2013
As we wait on the Lord, we learn to train our
affections according to His will. As we train our
affections, our minds are renewed by His truth. This
correlation between waiting and renewal is essential
to our well being both as individuals and as a
Christian school community.
We, your school leaders, are engaged in a constant cycle of evaluation,
consultation, implementation and review. We are pleased with the help
God has provided us as we address our school improvement goals this
year. We have made significant steps forward with curriculum mapping
and the formalization of a professional mentor program for our staff.
We are also engaged in hearty conversation about faith development in
students at Highland Christian.
Undoubtedly, we will at times disappoint each other. In these times, the
grace of accountability and forgiveness cover us. As we grow in unity,
encouraging one another in faith and obedience, we will shape our
children and the future lives they will lead. This is our call.
May the Lord richly bless our humble obedience, our willing labor and
our unwavering commitment to Him. May He act swiftly as judge and
counselor for each of us as we care for the children.
On behalf of the Staff and Board of Highland Christian School,
Jodi Lineburg
Development Director/Recruiter
students in action
Grandparents’ Day
On Friday, October 12, Highland Christian students
welcomed their grandparents and special friends to the annual
Grandparents’ Day. The theme was All-Encompassing Love: Kept
as an Eternal Possession. It tied in with the school verse for this
year, 1 Peter 2:9.
The morning started out with a delicious brunch served by
the 8th graders. Devotions were led by Rev. Laryn Zoerhof, a
pastor from DeMotte, IN and a grandparent of three students at
Highland Christian.
After breakfast, the grandparents had an hour to visit their
grandchildren in the classrooms. They were able to see the
rooms, 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.
The students then presented a program, led by music teacher
Karen Bouma and Principal Deb Benson. The kindergarten
through 5th grade students sang about God’s love and joined
together for the final song, “The Power of the Cross”. This song
reminded everyone of how God sacrificed His Son because of His
love for us. Ms. Benson also shared many stories of how God’s
love is shown at our school and in our community through the
actions of students, staff, teachers, and parents
The children always enjoy sharing their school with grandparents
and the grandparents had a great time visiting, as well.
New at Highland Christian: Leveled Reading
An exciting new reading program has come to Highland Christian. First grade is piloting Leveled Reading. Mrs. Blaize, a new
addition to our staff, has come along side Mrs. DeYoung, Mrs. Otte, and Mrs. Schoon to help coach and
organize this exciting new approach to teaching reading. We have even added to our reinforcements. Mr.
Turner, a recent graduate of Trinity, will be adding his fresh eyes and helping hands to this new project. We
are very blessed to have such an innovative staff who is willing to take our reading program to a higher level.
Leveled reading uses small-group instruction and developmentally appropriate books
called leveled books. This approach recognizes that a wide range of reading ability
exists within any grade level or age group, and that reading at the appropriate levels
ensures success. Each 30 minute session begins with introducing a book, eliciting
prior knowledge, and building background. A child is placed in a small group with other
children of similar ability and given a developmentally appropriate book to read. The teacher
monitors and guides the reading of each child as needed. Discussion of the book follows in the
form of a student generated journal entry, and the child takes the book home to read with family.
Four times per week each child reads a book of an appropriate level resulting in an intensive
reading/writing experience.
We anticipate that with the success of the first grade pilot we will move forward
with similar programs in kindergarten, second and third grades. Our goal is to meet
each child’s individual educational needs. Leveled Reading is an excellent program
that with help our excellent teachers teach our excellent students to excel.
March 2013
schoolbell 3
students in action
Thanksgiving
Chapel 2012
The students entered the gym to the wonderful piano playing
of Mr. David Winter. He played while we seated ourselves for a
chapel full of praise and thanksgiving.
Once again, Highland Christian had the privilege of collecting
food and clothing for Beacon Light Pantry and Roseland
Christian Ministries; and the community of HCS stepped up to
the plate and gave generously from the heart. As you entered
the gym, you could feel the excitement as the kids placed their donations on the already overflowing tables. We were
blessed by a word of thanks from Gladys, as she let us know how grateful the people who come to Beacon Light Pantry
will be. She is always so gracious and has a delightful smile on her face. We also heard from Joe Huizenga from Roseland
Christian Ministries. He had a special message for us and thanked us whole-heartedly for the wonderful donations. He
promised next year that we could hear more of the beautiful music from his friend David!
After that, we watched a power-point presentation of
many of our students and what they were thankful for. It
was entertaining and moving to hear these expressions of
thanks. We ended with some praise songs and left with
a feeling of generosity and warmth, knowing that many
people would be blessed through these gifts. We have so
much. It is a joy to share.
Partnering with
World
Vision
Primary Students Experience
the Joy of Giving
Charity begins at home. It begins with the understanding
that all that we have comes from God. It happens when
we understand that we are His witnesses. We are the
vessels He uses to showcase His great love to a world in
need. This is a truth we seek to embed in our practice of
Christian education.
This year, the families of our primary grade students
decided to fore-go their class Christmas parties. They
decided to donate the money normally spent on festivities
and gifts to World Vision so that children of like ages,
right here in the United States, could have clothes and
school supplies. The Lord blessed their efforts with
a multiplied gift of $575! We are thankful for this
opportunity to see God at work.
4 schoolbell March 2013
students in action
“Each of you
should use
whatever
gift you have
received to
serve others,
as faithful
stewards of
God’s grace in its
various forms.”
1 Peter 4:1
Operation Christmas Child
This Christmas season the Highland Christian School community, sponsored by many teachers as well as the Junior
High Chapel Committee, took the opportunity to share our gifts with others by participating in the Operation Christmas
Child program. Operation Christmas Child is an outreach ministry that collects boxes filled with gifts for children
in need throughout the world. These boxes are an opportunity to share the blessings God has given us and a chance
to share the Gospel message with those who may have never heard the Good News! All throughout the month of
December, representatives from the Samaritan’s Purse Outreach organization deliver the nearly 70 boxes our school
families have graciously donated, bringing joy to many around the world. A special thank you to all the families who
joined in this season of giving!
S.P.I.C.E. & etc... a resale marketplace
(You) x (GOD)= Blessings10
“Hey don’t you wanna go ....where everybody knows your name
and you’re always glad you came...” These popular lyrics jingled
through my mind during my most recent trip to etc... a resale
marketplace. Fact is, when you go... it’s fun to stay.
etc’s business plan was solid from the beginning; it’s market
predictions spot on. HOWEVER, the multidimensional blessings
were only partly imagined. We are thankful that God knows the
bigger story. He see’s all the parts. He knows how all the pieces fit.
He knew the characters and the plot of this chapter long before
we did.
We are very thankful for the thousands of volunteer hours that
are logged each month by both friends and strangers. Strangers?
Hardly. These “new friends” are making a difference in our lives
everyday. Stop in. Say hi. Everyone will be glad you came.
March 2013
schoolbell 5
students in action
More is New at Sonshine Enrichment Center
5 Half Day Class.
New at Sonshine Enrichment Center is our class of 4 and 5 year old students who attend school 5 mornings each week from
8:45 – 12:00. Ms. Ann-Nicole Sitter is teaching this new class offering. We also have a new teacher at SEC; her name is Mrs.
Christine Hoekstra. Mrs. Hoekstra teaches one of our two classes for 4 and 5 year old students that meet three mornings a
week. Mrs. Hoekstra uses both our large classroom and the BAC room for learning experiences. Our new aides this year are:
Mrs. Julie Poremba, and Mrs. Stephanie Yonkman. We are excited about our new 5 half day class and these new, energetic
members of our staff.
First Grade Learns
About Animals
The first graders went to Brookfield Zoo to learn
about the amazing animals that God created.
Here is what the class had to say about their
exciting day:
Charity liked the okapi because it looked like a
zebra and a giraffe mixed together.
Isaac liked the polar bear because it jumped in the water
to eat a fish that the zoo keeper threw in.
Moriah, Savannah, Grace, Nora and Mikayla all liked
the dolphins because they swam close to the glass and
smiled at them.
Savanna liked the peacock with the beautiful feathers. It
walked up to eat our lunch with us.
Chase and Sophia liked the penguins swimming in
the water.
Calvin, Colin and Madysen liked watching the wolves run
and play.
Charley and Jake liked the snow leopards because they
jumped right up to the glass.
Jackson and Niaomi liked the black and white stripes on
the zebras.
Nathan and Andy liked watching the lions chase each
other and get a drink from the pond.
Madelyn liked the red and green poison frogs because they
were very colorful.
Ana liked the fountain because it was humongous and
splashed water on her.
Jaiden liked watching the bats fly around and hang
upside down.
Sam liked the alligator because it had super sharp claws.
Julia liked the gorillas because the biggest silver-back was
looking right at her.
Emily liked the otters because they were slippery
and cute.
Mrs. Otte loved watching her class learn about animals
from all around the world.
6 schoolbell March 2013
Logs, Bogs, and Frogs!
Our year started with a unit of learning
all about frogs. Mrs. Karen Huizenga
brought in several frogs which she put
in 2 different habitats (one with more
land, other with more water). We
were thrilled to watch them jump
and eat with their sticky tongues –
WOW! They are fast!! Our thanks to
Mrs. Huizenga for the frogs and all the
bugs (crickets, pill bugs, meal worms) she
caught to feed them!! We then watched as tadpoles
we ordered went through their life cycle and turned into
froglets and then into frogs. We were amazed at the wonder
of God’s creation! Each day we eagerly anticipated new
changes we could observe.
Thanks to you...
SEC has many new learning resources this year, thanks to
several generous donations.
For Art and Creative, hands-on learning experiences: 20 new
art smocks (to replace old ones), a 60”X90” mat, as well
as 4 jumbo mats were purchased. The teachers in our large
classroom have established a Science learning center this year.
The following resources were purchased for our 3 classrooms
for Science enrichment: 3 GeoSafari talking microscopes, 3
ant/3 ladybug/3 butterfly life cycle models. A Hap Palmer
CD set was added to Music area and a mailbox in the
Dramatic Play area. A Sign Language Alphabet Puzzle will
aid Language and Manipulative development. We are very
excited about new resources for large motor development: 6
playground balls, 4 sports activity balls, 4 sensory balls, set
of 6 EZ catchers, AND our new zigzag balance beam on our
outdoor playground (we thank Mr. De Young and Building &
Grounds for installing it for us). SEC staff is benefiting from
the purchase of 6 clipboards, new first aid kit, and an electric
pencil sharpener.
With an enrollment of nearly 120 students and the addition
of a new classroom, all these new resources are much
appreciated!! We heartily thank all our friends of SEC for
supporting us and our students’ development in such a
generous way!! Our thanks, also, to the PTO, Mr. Glen
De Young, and the school board and administration who
continue to help each teacher secure materials needed for
developmentally appropriate teaching.
2012-13 IMPLEMENTATION OF
MEASURES OF
ACADEMIC PROGRESS
This past fall, Highland Christian School students took their
first online MAP tests. The Measures of Academic Progress
(MAP) tests present students with engaging, age-appropriate
content. As a student responds to questions, the test responds
to the student, adjusting up or down in difficulty. MAP
assessments provide teachers with detailed, actionable data
about where each child is on their unique learning path, and
help to capture detail about what students know and what
they’re ready to learn. The results provide information teachers
can use in the classroom to help every child, every day.
CRISIS MANAGEMENT
Teachers are able to determine precisely which concepts
a student has mastered, and which areas to focus on for
academic growth; define flexible groups for instruction, based
on common needs; link test results to skills and concepts
aligned with state standards; and facilitate goal-setting and
student learning plans.
1. Teachers received A.L.I.C.E. training on February
15th. This program trains adults how to respond at
the time of crisis. The acronym A.L.I.C.E. stands for
Alert-Lockdown-Inform-Counter-Evacuate.
HCS will use the results to track students’ academic growth
over a school year and over several years, and to determine
how to fine-tune specific programs from year to year. Because
the results of the assessments are immediate, it’s possible
to determine instructional needs and to respond to them in
a timely manner—which ultimately helps us carry out our
calling of guiding students into discovering “How to Be”.
School violence has haunted an increasing number
of communities around our country. Following the
most recent tragedy in Connecticut, the teachers, staff
and Board of Highland Christian School have sought
ways to enhance our School’s crisis management
protocols. Below are some of the initial steps we’ve
taken to enhance our crisis management plan.
2. Each telephone will have an emergency alert code
programmed on it so that an alert may be called
from anywhere in the building.
3. The Highland Police Department will practice crisis
response at HCS.
4. Students will be taken on ‘field trips’ to off-site
evacuation location(s) so that they are familiar with
this location and can be directed to it in the event of
an emergency at Highland Christian School
Shedd Aquarium
On October 26th, the second graders went on a field trip
to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago! Everyone was excited and
could not wait for the day to come. The second graders saw
many amazing animals that God created. Among these animals
were fascinating sea horses, a huge spider crab, a giant turtle
named Nickel, incredible octopuses, colorful mantilla frogs,
and a slow-moving iguana! The students, their teachers, and
their chaperons explored the aquarium and talked about what
made the animals special. The field trip was a huge success and
left everyone with great memories and more knowledge about
God’s remarkable creatures!
March 2013
schoolbell 7
students in action
God’s Enduring Love
During our study of the Psalms, the 5th graders read Psalm 136 which describes the enduring love of God through the
generations. We followed the Biblical narrative of the Psalm, but noticed the author stopped the story during the time
of the Judges. The story of God’s love continues through the rest of the Old Testament, into the New Testament, and
with the stories of our fathers and us. Fifth graders were challenged to add other Biblical and present day examples that
continue the narrative of God’s enduring love. The Class of 2016 invites you to praise God for His great faithfulness as
you read their Psalm now.
Psalm 136
To Him who gave Abraham a land
and a people
His love endures forever.
And saved Isaac by providing a ram
for the sacrifice.
His love endures forever.
To Him who set Noah and the ark
on dry land
His love endures forever.
And sent the promise never to flood
the earth again.
His love endures forever.
To Him who sent the 10 plagues to
set His people free
His love endures forever.
And blew the wind to dry a path
through the Red Sea.
His love endures forever.
To Him who divided the Jordan River
so His people could cross
His love endures forever.
And provided Rahab to hide the spies.
His love endures forever.
To Him who brought Jericho
tumbling down
His love endures forever.
And gave His people, Israel, the land
of milk and honey.
His love endures forever.
To Him who helped Gideon and the 300
Israelite army defeat the Midianites
His love endures forever.
And raised up judges to rule over
the people.
His love endures forever.
To Him who gave Samson the strength
to pull down the pillar and defeat
the Midianites
His love endures forever.
And gave Ruth the courage to
follow Naomi.
His love endures forever.
To Him who gave David the strength
to defeat Goliath
His love endures forever.
8 schoolbell March 2013
And anointed David king over
His people.
His love endures forever.
To Him who gave Solomon the wisdom
to decide between the two mothers
His love endures forever.
And used Solomon to build a Temple,
a place of worship.
His love endures forever.
To Him who set Esther on the throne
so she could save her people
His love endures forever.
And used Nehemiah to rebuild the
city walls.
His love endures forever.
To Him who saved Daniel from
getting eaten by lions
His love endures forever.
And walked with Shadrach, Meschach,
and Abednego in the fiery furnace.
His love endures forever.
To Him who sent a whale to swallow
and save Jonah
His love endures forever.
And rescued the repentant city
of Ninevah.
His love endures forever.
To Him who performed healing miracles,
giving sight to the blind, hearing to the
deaf, clean skin to lepers
His love endures forever.
And drove demons from people.
His love endures forever.
To Him who broke the bread and
fishes to feed 5,000
His love endures forever.
And gave Lazarus life after death.
His love endures forever.
To Him who walked on water
His love endures forever.
And let Peter walk without sinking.
His love endures forever.
To Him who sent an earthquake to
release Paul from jail
His love endures forever.
And used the gospel to bring faith to
the jailer and his family
His love endures forever.
To Him who gave His one and only Son
His love endures forever.
And promises believers eternal life
and a home.
His love endures forever.
To Him who provides Christian
teachers to nurture us
His love endures forever.
And church families to pray for us.
His love endures forever.
To Him who calls missionaries to go
tell the Good News
to those who don’t believe
His love endures forever.
And calls pastors to preach His Word.
His love endures forever.
To Him who gave me Christian
parents who love and care for me
His love endures forever.
And friends who make me laugh.
His love endures forever.
To Him who gave my Grandma comfort
and strength when her husband died
His love endures forever.
And gave my Grandmother the faith to
believe Heaven is her home.
His love endures forever.
To Him who helped my Grandmother
battle cancer
His love endures forever.
And called my father home when his
race was over.
His love endures forever.
To Him who wants the world to
witness the wonder of His power
His love endures forever.
And calls Christians to be salt and
light in His world.
His love endures forever.
-5th graders version of
the continuing story of
God’s enduring love
students in action
Math
Triathlon
On Friday, November 30, HCS joined
several other area Christian schools in
the annual Math Triathlon sponsored by
Trinity Christian College. Sixteen students
from grades 3-6 were selected by their
teachers based on test scores and math
aptitude. Once the competition began,
students took an individual test, a group
test, and a team relay test. Each event
was scored to determine the winners.
While HCS did not win a school trophy,
the students represented Christ well
by encouraging one another and other
participating schools. Students who represented HCS were: Matthew Fulton, Chris Koutz*, Lindsey LaBuda*, Macy Margherio*,
Olivia De Young, Annie Kielpikowski, Ben Meter, Eddie Spoelman*, Fletcher Bandstra, Tristan Buder, Jack Burbage, Simon
Molenaar*, Madison Derks, Max Meter*, Elena Parodi, and Thijs van Belle. (*high score for HCS)
Hatching Chickens
This year the science room had an opportunity again to watch chickens hatch.
The eggs were delivered to school on October 1, from the Indiana 4H club. They
were already 7 days old when they arrived. For the next five days the students
learned about chickens and what development an egg has to go through before
it can hatch. As predicted, all twelve eggs hatched on Monday, October 8. This
was an amazing sight for many of the students. After about 24 hours, the chicks
were removed from the incubator and placed in a large cardboard box with
a heat source. The students were allowed to hold, feed, and interact with the
chicks. Our twelve guests stayed with us for a week and a half. They were even
here for Grandparents’ Day, which gave the students an opportunity to tell their
grandparents what they had learned about chicks. We were very sad to see them
leave when the farmer came to get them, but we will always have the memory of
the peeping of the chicks.
March 2013
schoolbell 9
students in action
High Honor Roll
First Quarter 2012/2013
Lilly Armendariz
Taylor Bapst
Jack Barth
Emily Blink
Heidi Bultema
Matthew Fulton
Emma Groot
Bo Hofstra
Ben Knoll
Christopher Koutz
Sarah Kuiper
Lindsey LaBuda
Cassie Laninga
Jake Lenting
Sarah Mapes
Macy Margherio
Emily Montalvo
Marissa Montalvo
Julia Oostema
Sarah O’Riley
Ethan O’Riley
Cate Peerbolte
JP Peerbolte
Aslynn Riemersma
Morgan Rinkema
Ryan Rudenga
Eden Schipper
Melanie Van Til
Matthew Vargo
Rachel Wilcox
Seth Witham
Erin Yonkman
Honor Roll
First Quarter 2012/2013
5th grade leaf collection
Jr. High Studies
the Holocaust
Due to some changes in the Junior High schedule, some students
are taking a class on the Holocaust, taught by Mrs. Groen.
Using curriculum provided by the Illinois Holocaust Museum,
Echoes and Reflections, produced by the Anti Defamation League,
students have heard and read about a number of survivors of the
Holocaust.
Ronald Bass
Raena Bass
Jessica Bell
Joshua Boender
Collin Bultema
Christina Camp
Elyse Dunham
Katie Dykstra
Andrew Feikema
Noah Holderman
Vanesa Huizenga
Ben Johnson
Jared Jonkman
Jordan Kikkert-Miller
Joseph Klapak
Hannah Last
Marissa Lopez
Carla Lopez
Kyle Mulderink
Jacob Mulderink
Joshua Otte
Joshua Parodi
Avrey Riemersma
Sarah Schoon
Riley Schutt
Victoria Terpstra
Payton Vaca
Dylan Vander Woude
Kyle Zuidema
On Tuesday, October 2, the 7th grade and Holocaust class took a
trip to the Holocaust Museum in Skokie, Illinois. Students were
led by volunteer docents who asked the kids many questions
and engaged students in many ways. The permanent exhibition
reflects the various stages of the Holocaust. At the end of our
tour, we listened to a Holocaust survivor from Germany who
escaped to Italy. She implored the students to make sure they
knew the truth about history and participated in our democracy,
the only way in which free people can remain free.
The Museum was started by Jewish survivors faced with a march
by Neo-Nazis about 30 years ago. It started as a storefront
and has since become a large museum, with extra displays on
those who have been persecuted, and always has speakers and
programs that bring attention to areas in the world where people
are being persecuted. The Illinois Holocaust Museum is about an
hour’s drive from our school. Hopefully, students can return to
the museum with parents and grandparents, to understand how
a community in the Chicago-land area was created by refugees
from the Holocaust.
10 schoolbell March 2013
STARRING: Highland Christian School Junior High
OPENING: May 10, 2013
TICKETS AVAILABLE SOON!
students in action
School
Newspaper
By Ethan O’Riley
When the junior high students looked at their elective choices
this summer, many were surprised to find a brand new
elective on the list--School Newspaper.
The HCS news team officially met on the second day of
school, when Mrs. Scheeringa enlightened the group on
their mission as reporters. The first order of business was the
news inside the paper itself. Then, the group had to decide
on a name. Many names were submitted and a winner was
decided--The Paw.
Currently, The Paw has issued two newspapers. The content of
the newspaper articles varies in topic because news varies. In
one newspaper, there might be a couple of articles on world
news and no articles on school news. This just means that
there was a lot of world news to report on, and nothing in the
area of school news. Students have become very flexible due
to the inconsistency in newsworthy stories.
The news team consists of the following people: Bo Hofstra
and Jared Jonkman are the Sports Team; they report on the
latest game stats, Caleb Last and Matthew Vargo are the
National/World News and Economics Team; they bring us a
little closer to our nation and the world, Ethan O’Riley and
Eden Schipper are the Support Team; they are in charge of
editing, and submitting articles to other groups, Raena Bass,
Melanie VanTil, Noah Holderman, and Neal Pawlowski are the
School News Team; they bring school news to the students,
Ben Johnson, Elyse Dunham, Hannah Kortum, and Tiffany
Ketelaar form the Entertainment Team; they make comics,
games, and other things that bring a fun side to the news.
A major highlight for the news team was their field trip
to the Northwest Indiana Times. During the field trip,
students had the opportunity to see a professional
newspaper created. First off, the news crew went with their
tour guide to visit the graphic and layout designers. They
got to see the steps taken to put advertisements into the
paper, and the students heard a few layout workers talk
about their day. The students also saw the security room and
the actual printing area. The printing area was really loud and
paper rolls were everywhere. All in all, the students had a great
time and learned a lot.
Being part of a newspaper has benefited the students in
many ways. They have learned to work together and solve
problems. Through the writing process, students are able
to express themselves in their own style. In school news,
students can choose which stories they want to write about;
this makes writing personal and interesting for the students
and the readers.
Student Council
By Eden Schipper
This year the junior high has a student council! It was
chosen by the students, and it gives students a way of
having a voice in what’s going on. Mrs. Scheeringa is
the faculty sponsor for this new program. The council
completely runs and governs itself. Members meet before
school almost every Wednesday. Throughout the year,
the student council will be working on fund-raisers and
will be discussing the different issues facing the junior
high. The members consist of two sixth graders-- Julia
Oostema, Secretary, and Cate Peerbolte; three seventh
graders-- Jordan Kikkert-Miller, Treasurer, Andrew Feikema,
and Jeffrey Kroll; and three eighth graders-- Jack Barth,
President, Ethan O’Riley, and Eden Schipper.
THREE CHEERS FOR
HOT LUNCH - HOORAY!
Mrs. Spoelman, Mrs. Lopez and I are excited to be
part of Highland Christian’s lunch program. On
average we greet and serve 170 students each day!
Parents have commented that they like having the
option of a school lunch on busy mornings. The students really enjoy when we switch up the menu and
serve breakfast for lunch. Some other favorites are
chicken legs, nachos, and chicken nuggets. We have
listened to input from the students and made some
changes to the original four week rotation. Thank
you to the parents, faculty and students for their
support of the hot lunch program.
- Mrs. Meeter
March 2013
schoolbell 11
sports
Cross Country
Boys Sweep the Invitationals
Girls Take Historic First Places
This year our teams were blessed with returning
leadership in 7th and 8th grades, which made a big
difference in what they could accomplish. Both our boys
and girls teams started and finished strong and worked
well together as teams.
Consistent participation in practices and hard work at
meets led our boys to bring home three first place trophies
from the Lansing Invitational, the Chicago Southwest
Christian Invitational, and the Illiana Invitational. This
was the first time that a Highland team had won three
first place trophies in one year. The leadership of our 8th
grade boys, supplemented by some strong 7th graders
and 6th graders, contributed greatly to a winning year.
Additionally, the team had some help from soccer team
members who ran the meets. These participants were
Carlos Lopez and Kyle Zuidema. This great team effort
was capped off by a new school individual record of 8:53
for the 1.5 mile race set by Jacob Thompson.
Our girls also had a historically successful year. Providing
important leadership was returning 6th grader, Cate
Peerbolte. She was assisted by two 7th grade soccer
players, Emily Blink and Sarah Kuiper, and one 6th grade
soccer player, Heidi Bultema. The team was also greatly
enhanced by two fifth graders, Kaylee Evers and Audrey
Zoeteman. Our girls’ team had the privilege of being the
first girls’ team to not only bring one first place trophy
home, but two. Never before has a girls’ team taken home
one first place trophy, moreover two!
2012 Boys: Josh Boender, Jak Klapak, Carlos Lopez, Kyle
Mulderink, JP Peerbolte, Kyle Reynhout, Eric Robinson,
Isaac Sytsma, Jacob Thompson, and Kyle Zuidema.
2012 Girls: Emily Blink, Heidi Bultema, Kaylee Evers,
Sarah Kuiper, Cate Peerbolte, and Audrey Zoeteman.
Individual Medal Winners
Boys: Jacob Thompson, Isaac Sytsma, Carlos Lopez, Jak
Klapak, JP Peerbolte, Kyle Mulderink
Girls: Emily Blink, Cate Peerbolte, Audrey Zoeteman
12 schoolbell March 2013
sports
7th Grade Girls’ Volleyball
This season the 7th grade girls’ volleyball team was made up entirely of 6th graders. The girls learned and improved a lot
throughout the season. The team always had a great attitude, despite the fact that every team we played was bigger, faster and
more experienced than we were. This never got the girls down. They love the sport of volleyball and were eager to improve
and use what they had learned in practice in the games. Mid-way through the season, we won our first set against Tinley Park,
and the girls capped off their season by beating Lansing in the first game of the Illiana Tournament. I look forward to seeing
this team play again next year as 7th graders! Congratulations on an amazing season, ladies! Team members were: Morgan
Rinkema, Jessica Bell, Lilly Laballiere, Cate Peerbolte, Sarah Mapes, Hannah Last, Sarah O’Riley, Julia Oostema, Katerra Phillips,
Macy Margherio, Tori Ruffolo and Aslynn Riemersma.
8th Grade Girls’ Volleyball
The 8th grade volleyball team had great year! Even though our record
does not show it, our skills improved with each game. The goal for
the year was to prepare the girls for high school volleyball, which
includes strategy and being competitive. We worked on passing
and running an offense that consists of a bump-set-spike mentality.
With that, I feel we succeeded! Each girl built on her strengths and
improved on weaknesses. The team had a ton of fun and I hope they
continue their volleyball journey through high school.
Coach Porter
“A” Soccer Team
“B” Soccer Team
The A soccer team got off to a rough start when they traveled
to DeMotte and lost the season opener 5-0, but they came
back strong at the next game, with a 3-0 win over Calvary
Academy at home. On the road again, they lost by one point
to Crown Point Christian and came back home to beat Tinley
Park 3-1. They then settled in for two tie games on the road
against Calvin Christian and Oak Lawn.
The B soccer team got off to a great start, with a 2-1 win over
Crown Point on the road. They came back home to beat
Tinley Park, and then settled for a tie with Calvin Christian.
The players continued to show improvement in their game,
as they went on to beat Oak Lawn 2-1.
The team kicked off the tournament at Tinley Park with a
tough loss to Trinity Lutheran, but the Huskies re-grouped
and came back strong with a 5-0 win over St Paul, to take
third place in the tournament.
The players had a tough end to the regular season with
three losses and one tie. It should be noted that, with the
exception of the DeMotte game, the other games were very
evenly matched, with the Huskies losing by just one goal in
almost every game. The strength of this year’s team was the
mid-field and defensive positions. It is my hope that this
year’s 8th graders will continue their soccer careers, as they
move on to their next adventure at the high school level.
“A” Soccer Team Members were: Emily Blink, Christina
Camp, Anthony Hart, Bo Hofstra, Vanesa Huizenga, Michael
Johnson, Jared Jonkman, Sarah Kuiper, Carlos Lopez, Ryan
Rudenga, Tori Terpstra, Noah VanderWoude, Matt Vargo and
Kyle Zuidema.
The team stood strong on the road with DeMotte, but ended
the game with a tie score. The last game of the season was
played at home in the pouring rain against Crown Point. The
referee almost canceled the game, but the spirited Huskies
played through the rain, eager to close out their season on a
high note, however, they fell short, 2-1 in the end.
I was incredibly pleased to see how the players developed
as a team over the season, working together to achieve their
goals. We also had four players that moved up to the A team
during the season, to help prepare them for next year.
I think we have a very promising future for our soccer
program in 2013!
“B” Soccer Team Members were: Connor Robertson,
Andrew Feikema, Lindsey LaBuda, Erin Yonkman, Chris
Koutz, Kyle Mulderink, Jordan Costello, Marissa Lopez,
Heidi Bultema, Isaac Sytsma, Matt Fulton, Ronald Bass, Josh
Parodi, Ben Johnson, Dylan VanderWoude, Josh Otte and
Samuel Delahunty.
March 2013
schoolbell 13
friends in action
Joy
in the
Journey
Foundation
interact
connect
grow ...how to be
We believe that Christian education
is an inter-generational gift. It is a
heritage that is passed on to children
and grandchildren.
No matter how you
connect with us,
you will change a
child’s world. Each
child’s life will be
impacted to the degree
that someone is involved.
Is it optional? No. Whether you attend
a public or private school building,
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION is a mandate.
We do believe, however, that private,
Christian education is the BEST OPTION
and is worth working for.
Your interaction and
engagement is the
essential key. It takes all
of us to make Highland
Christian School great. It is not
the school, but her community
that is Christ-centered.
To this end, Highland Christian School’s
community is committed to two things:
#1. Maintain a well established, highly
qualified educational facility that is
CHRIST CENTERED. Here, children
will receive a solid education that is
consistent in theology and doctrine.
#2. Provide prudent oversight of our
finances and gifts so that we are able to
contain the cost of tuition and provide
economic stability through changing
times. This requires foresight and
commitment.
The Highland Christian School
Foundation Fund is not simply a fund for
the WEALTHY. Rather it is more readily
likened to a COMMON FUND through
which we each may give as we are able in
order to steward this gift called Highland
Christian School.
We are happy to introduce you to HCS
Foundation’s new electronic newsletter
“Deep Roots, New Shoots.” We look
forward to being an asset in your family’s
stewardship. Visit www.highlandchristian.
org and click on Newsletters for
more information.
COMING SOON!
• Monthly Foundation Giving Program:
110 PERCENT@highlandchristian
• Bigger Circles/Deeper RootsTeaching children to live generously
• 110 PERCENT JR! @highlandchristian
14 schoolbell March 2013
Society
Meeting
Find your place.
Enjoy your journey.
Highland Christian School is parent governed. Each year we host
a Society Meeting on the first Monday evening in May. At this
meeting, the acting Board and Administrative Team reports on the
state of the School. During this meeting we review and approve the
annual budget. Here too, we nominate our School Board.
Voting privileges are given to individuals who are professing
believers, active members in good standing of a local church in the
Christian Reformed or Reformed denominational family and are
active in their financial support of HCS.
Privilege of the floor is given to any vested member of our
community who is a professing believer, an active member in good
standing within their local church and wishes to invest themselves
in our School. We invite you to join us on May 6, 2013 for this
year’s Society Meeting
Volunteerism
Volunteers are an essential resource at Highland Christian School.
Not only do you provide savings and increase funding, you
ALSO serve as a role model for our students. THANK YOU!
Your example is an incredible gift!
We appreciate all who respond to our calls for volunteers. We value
your time and the assets you willingly contribute for the good of
Highland Christian School. If you haven’t found a place to plug in,
keep looking! We need everyone to contribute what they can.
For more information on using your gifts at HCS,
contact Jodi by phone at 219-838-0356 x165 or by email at
[email protected].
Husky Hustle 5K Run & Walk
friends in action
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
March 28. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End 3rd Qtr. – 1:45 Dismissal
March 29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Good Friday – No School
March 30 – April 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spring Vacation - No School
April 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . School Resumes
April 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HCS Open House
April 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Silent Auction
April 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Live Auction
May 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Service Day - 1:45 Dismissal
May 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Annual Society Meeting - 7:30 p.m.
May 10. . . . . . . . . . Musical – Matinee and Evening Performance
May 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8th Grade Banquet
May 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-8 Spring Program – 6:30 p.m.
May 21,22. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SEC Last Days
May 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . SEC Graduation for Kdg.-Bound Students
May 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SEC Picnic
May 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ETC Memorial Day Weekend Sale
May 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Memorial Day - No School
June 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Last Day (K-7) 1:45 Dismissal
June 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8th Grade Graduation - 7:30 p.m.
2013 HIGHLAND CHRISTIAN SCHOOL WISH LIST
DONATIONS & FUNDS DISBURSEMENT
When you grant a wish, simply specify the program area or
item that the donation should be applied towards. Sometimes
we are able to purchase items at a discount or for other
reasons, an item is less costly than expected. If there is a
surplus of $25 on any one donation, we will contact you for
directions regarding the reapplication of your gift.
HIGH PRIORITY WISHES
Administrative
Additional emergency radios - $250 each
(2) Carlisle Cateraide 5-gallon beverage server - $135 each
Hot Lunch Program
Laptop with wireless internet access - $350 each
Technology
(5) TV’s for classrooms w/hanging apparatus--$1,000 each
(1) Wi-Fi connector - $40 each
(1) Flat screen TV with cart Preschool - $1,000 each
(1) DVD to Digital/Apple TV Converter - N/A
(12) Ipad/ Apple TV combo for classrooms - $550 /set
Laptop computer classroom (26 laptops + cart) - $15,000 total
(This is for use with the standardized MAP testing especially so that the
LAB can be used for technology classes)
First Grade
(20) Student Scrapbook Picture Journals - $5 each
Enrichment activities for special classroom units - $60 each
Books with CD’s for Listening Center - $60 each
Enrichment games for Math/Creativity Center - $60 each
Second Grade
Learning Center dividers – 3 - $47 each
Math Matters (books related to math concepts) - $65 each
Fifth Grade
(20) Merriam-Webster’s Desk Dictionary - $12 each
(30) student whiteboards - $3 each
Junior High – Mr. Brink
Bible DVDs - $185 each
Junior High – Mrs. Timmer
Creation Museum DVDs - $69.99 each
Library
American the Beautiful (55 State Books - $38 each
BUILDING & GROUNDS WISHES
Many of the items listed here are for projects we complete during
summer seasons. While we do budget for many of these projects,
contributions made to offset these improvements allow us to make
better upgrades and open the possibility for additional projects.
Thank you for considering; and for partnering with us as we strive
to make Highland Christian School's facility the best it can be.
Roof Project
Tar paper and ice and water shield - $1,750 each
101 Squares of 30-yr. architectural shingles - $128 per sq each
Parking Lot Project
Seal all cracks with hot rubber - $2,977 each
Landscape Project
170 yards of playground mulch - $21 per yard
25 yards of landscape mulch - $25 per yard
Shrubs, plants and brick ribbon to landscape the "U" grass area facing
the playground - $3,200
Transportation
5 GPS’s for buses - $125 each
March 2013
schoolbell 15
36
Newsletter Sign-up
The latest news at your convenience.
Bake Sale is during the Silent Auction
Are you interested in the community at Highland
Christian School? Consider signing up for a HCS
Newsletter! Let us bring our news to you.
Live Auction - Saturday, April 27
BETTER YET Choose the news that interests you:
Silent Auction- Friday, April 26
Kitchen Opens at 5:00pm. Bidding begins at 5:30pm.
You are invited to the epic event of Highland Christian School’s
fundraising year! The 2013 Auction Committee is hard at work
planning for this year’s event. All are welcome! Enjoy a night
out in support of our school! It is an evening of fun, fellowship
and good food. The auction has something for everyone!
Special note: We are in need of Silent Auction shoppers to
check out those clearance areas for great deals! If you have any
donated items, you may drop them off in the school office or
call Suzanne at 838-0356 to arrange for pick up.
It’s going to be a lively weekend! Don’t miss out!
How it Works
The bidder numbers are available at the registration table. The
bidder must show this number to validate the purchase being made.
Hot & cold food, various desserts and beverages are being served on
the north side of the gym. We will begin serving food at 5:00 p.m.
Enjoy the excitement of bidding, share in the fellowship of those
around you, and have a GREAT time!
What it’s For
Highland Christian School’s annual Auction is our largest in house
fund raising event. The net profits offset a variety of operating
and dedicated expenses. The items we auction off are generously
donated by HCS constituents and local business owners.
“Train up a child in the way he should go and
when he is old, he will not depart from it.
- Proverbs 22:6
• HCS Events & News
• Parent Note
• PTO News
• HCS Auction News
• HCS Foundation News
• ETC… News
• Special Invitations to V.I.P. Events
Subscribe With Confidence. AWeber’s
PermissionPledge ™ Protects Your Privacy
and Inbox.
To sign up for email news:
1. Go to www.highlandchristian.org
2. On our home page, click on “Newsletters”
3. Complete & submit the form
Once you have submitted the request form, an
automatic reply will be delivered to your
inbox. You must open and respond to this
email to confirm your request and activate your
subscription to HCS news.
2012-13 Boards of Directors
School Board
Tim Abbring
Jill Johnson
Larry Otte
Russ Rudenga
Ed Saxsma Joe Sitter John Stammis
P.J Wiltjer
Chris Yonkman
Jo Zandstra
FOUNDATION Board
Jill Feikema
Tricia Groot
Tim Huizenga
Darla Kinkade
Frank Van Til
Roger Yonkman
Don Zuidema