HIGHLAND CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

March 2013

How to Be:....Becoming who He wants us to BE

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2 schoolbell March 2013

fromthe cover

Becoming who we were made to BEWhen 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.

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 LineburgDevelopment Director/Recruiter

HCS MiSSion StatEMEntin order to honor God,we nurture and guide students to see the Father’s creationto sense order in a world saved by Christto serve God through the leading of the Holy Spirit

ContaCt uS3040 Ridge Road, Highland, indiana 46322219-838-0356www.highlandchristian.org

PRinCiPalMs. Deborah Benson

ExECutivE SECREtaRyJody Moes

DiRECtoR oF RECRuitMEntanD DEvEloPMEntJodi lineburg

SCHool BEll layoutChristina Woo

New at Highland Christian: Leveled ReadingAn 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.

Grandparents’ DayOn 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.

students in action

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students in action

thanksgiving Chapel 2012The 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 visionPrimary Students Experience the Joy of GivingCharity 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.

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“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

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!

operation Christmas Child

students in action

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.

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students in action

More is new at Sonshine Enrichment Center5 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.

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.

First Grade learns about animalsThe 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.

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Shedd aquariumOn 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!

2012-13 IMPLEMENTATION OF MEASURES OFACADEMIC 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.

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.

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”.

CRiSiS ManaGEMEntSchool 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.

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.

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

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students in action

God’s Enduring loveDuring 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.

To Him who gave Abraham a land and a peopleHis 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 landHis 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 freeHis 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 crossHis love endures forever.And provided Rahab to hide the spies.His love endures forever.To Him who brought Jericho tumbling downHis 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 MidianitesHis 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 MidianitesHis love endures forever.And gave Ruth the courage to follow Naomi.His love endures forever.To Him who gave David the strength to defeat GoliathHis love endures forever.

And anointed David king over His people.His love endures forever.To Him who gave Solomon the wisdom to decide between the two mothersHis 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 throneso she could save her peopleHis love endures forever.And used Nehemiah to rebuild the city walls.His love endures forever.To Him who saved Daniel from getting eaten by lionsHis 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 JonahHis 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 lepersHis love endures forever.And drove demons from people.His love endures forever.To Him who broke the bread and fishes to feed 5,000His love endures forever.And gave Lazarus life after death.His love endures forever.To Him who walked on waterHis love endures forever.And let Peter walk without sinking.His love endures forever.To Him who sent an earthquake to release Paul from jailHis love endures forever.

And used the gospel to bring faith to the jailer and his familyHis 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 usHis love endures forever.And church families to pray for us.His love endures forever.To Him who calls missionaries to go tell the Good Newsto those who don’t believeHis 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 meHis 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 diedHis 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 cancerHis 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 powerHis 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

Psalm 136

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students in action

Hatching ChickensThis 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.

MathtriathlonOn 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)

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students in action

Ronald BassRaena BassJessica BellJoshua BoenderCollin BultemaChristina CampElyse DunhamKatie DykstraAndrew FeikemaNoah HoldermanVanesa HuizengaBen JohnsonJared JonkmanJordan Kikkert-MillerJoseph Klapak

Hannah LastMarissa LopezCarla LopezKyle MulderinkJacob MulderinkJoshua OtteJoshua ParodiAvrey RiemersmaSarah SchoonRiley SchuttVictoria TerpstraPayton VacaDylan Vander WoudeKyle Zuidema

Honor RollFirst Quarter 2012/2013

Lilly ArmendarizTaylor BapstJack BarthEmily BlinkHeidi BultemaMatthew FultonEmma GrootBo HofstraBen KnollChristopher KoutzSarah KuiperLindsey LaBudaCassie LaningaJake LentingSarah MapesMacy Margherio

Emily MontalvoMarissa MontalvoJulia OostemaSarah O’RileyEthan O’RileyCate PeerbolteJP PeerbolteAslynn RiemersmaMorgan RinkemaRyan RudengaEden SchipperMelanie Van TilMatthew VargoRachel WilcoxSeth WithamErin Yonkman

High Honor RollFirst Quarter 2012/2013

Jr. High Studiesthe HolocaustDue 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.

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.

5th grade leaf collection

STARRING: Highland Christian School Junior High OPENING: May 10, 2013

TICKETS AVAILABLE SOON!

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students in action

Student CouncilBy Eden SchipperThis 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.

School newspaperBy Ethan o’RileyWhen 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.

THREE CHEERS FORHOT 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 stu-dents 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

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sports

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.

Cross CountryBoys Sweep the invitationals Girls take Historic First Places

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 WinnERSBoys: Jacob Thompson, Isaac Sytsma, Carlos Lopez, Jak Klapak, JP Peerbolte, Kyle Mulderink

Girls: Emily Blink, Cate Peerbolte, Audrey Zoeteman

sports

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8th Grade Girls’ volleyballThe 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

7th Grade Girls’ volleyballThis 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.

“a” Soccer teamThe 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 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.

“B” Soccer teamThe 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 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.

friends in action Joy in the Journeyinteractconnectgrow ...how to be

14 schoolbell March 2013

Foundation

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.

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.

Find your place. Enjoy your journey. Society

Meeting

We believe that Christian education is an inter-generational gift. It is a heritage that is passed on to children and grandchildren.

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.

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 Roots- Teaching children to live generously

• 110 PERCENT JR! @highlandchristian

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

volunteerismVolunteers 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 jlineburg@highlandchristian.org.

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.

Husky Hustle 5K Run & Walk

March 2013 schoolbell 15

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

administrativeadditional emergency radios - $250 each(2) Carlisle Cateraide 5-gallon beverage server - $135 each

Hot lunch Programlaptop 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 /setlaptop 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 eachEnrichment activities for special classroom units - $60 eachBooks with CD’s for listening Center - $60 eachEnrichment games for Math/Creativity Center - $60 each

Second Grade learning Center dividers – 3 - $47 eachMath Matters (books related to math concepts) - $65 each

2013 HIGHLAND CHRISTIAN SCHOOL WISH LISTFifth Grade(20) Merriam-Webster’s Desk Dictionary - $12 each(30) student whiteboards - $3 each

Junior High – Mr. BrinkBible DvDs - $185 each

Junior High – Mrs. timmerCreation Museum DvDs - $69.99 each

libraryamerican the Beautiful (55 State Books - $38 each

BuilDinG & GRounDS WiSHESMany 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 Projecttar paper and ice and water shield - $1,750 each101 Squares of 30-yr. architectural shingles - $128 per sq each

Parking lot ProjectSeal all cracks with hot rubber - $2,977 each

landscape Project170 yards of playground mulch - $21 per yard25 yards of landscape mulch - $25 per yardShrubs, plants and brick ribbon to landscape the "u" grass area facing the playground - $3,200

transportation5 GPS’s for buses - $125 each

“train up a child in the way he should go and

when he is old, he will not depart from it. - Proverbs 22:6

Silent Auction- Friday, April 26Bake Sale is during the Silent Auction

Live Auction - Saturday, April 27Kitchen 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 WorksThe 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 ForHighland 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.

Newsletter Sign-upThe latest news at your convenience.

Are you interested in the community at Highland Christian School? Consider signing up for a HCS Newsletter! Let us bring our news to you.

BETTER YET Choose the news that interests you:

• HCS Events & News• Parent Note• PTO News• HCS Auction News• HCS Foundation News• ETC… News• Special Invitations to V.I.P. Events

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To sign up for email news:

1. Go to www.highlandchristian.org2. On our home page, click on “Newsletters”3. Complete & submit the form

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SCHool BoaRD tim abbring Jill Johnson larry otte Russ RudengaEd Saxsma Joe Sitter John Stammis P.J WiltjerChris yonkman Jo Zandstra

FounDation BoaRD Jill Feikematricia Groottim HuizengaDarla KinkadeFrank van tilRoger yonkmanDon Zuidema

2012-13 Boards of Directors

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