Connections Spring 2017

A HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH PUBLICATION

SPRING 2017 Vol. 10 Issue 2

Co Op gets an Inside Look at the Hamilton Police Services p 10 The Future of Facilities Renewal

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Faces of HDCH Alumni

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New World Record @HDCH

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ALUMNI SURVEY RESULTS

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www.hdch.org | 905.648.6655 |

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Spring 2017 | Vol. 10 Issue 2

Features 6 Beautiful Work 10 ON THE COVER

PRI N CI PAL’S M E SS AGE

It’s more about the process than the final product.

Melissa Bezemer gets an inside look at the Hamilton Police services. Photo by: Hank Rintjema

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Alumni Survey Results

See a snapshot of the alumni survey.

Faces of HDCH

Catch up with some HDCH alumni.

From the Outback to Moosonee

Dr. Stephanie Dam ‘01 shares her love of animals and travel.

Three Generations & Counting

For over half of HDCHs history, there has been a member of Rene Dam’s family in attendance.

Editorial Team Charlene Hone, Adrianne Sprogis, Cheryl Webb

Connections is a semi-annual publication of Hamilton District Christian High.

Send all address changes to: info@hdch.org

All contents © Copyright 2017.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without express permission.

Advertising is invited. Please contact: chone@hdch.org Letters to the Editors Questions, comments and story ideas are welcome. Please email the editorial team at info@hdch.org.

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I trust this magazine finds you well. I love this magazine, each issue sits on my coffee table for a long time. There are times when I pour over it and read everything, and times when I just flip through and glance at some of pictures.

For me, the pages of this magazine are like sitting on a dock on my favourite lake and just taking in the view on a summer day. In the distance are beautiful tree lines and blue skies.

But then as your gaze moves from the horizon towards what’s right in front of you, you see a reflection of yourself broken by the ripples of the water.

I hope that as you turn the pages of this magazine, you will see a new picture, read a new story, perhaps even think about the future -- and all the while, you still recognize yourself in the reflection.

This magazine shares the big sky potential of our school community, while at the same time reflecting images and stories that remind us of who we were in high school and who we are now.

Ultimately, this magazine is a reminder that we are a community of saints, who have HDCH as our point of Connection -- and an amazing Creator as our Connector.

Enjoy.

Maintaining relevancy for future generations planning for success

By Rob Vanderkruk ‘84 Current Board Member & Parent when we attended, there were parents and leaders who had the vision to make HDCH relevant in their children’s lives.

Although our youth may not recognize it while they’re in high school, Christian Education is the very foundation that they build their lives on. It really is what sets us apart from ‘ordinary’ education.

About six years ago, a Visionary Committee was established with a Mandate towards identifying the future necessities for HDCH with respect to programs, facilities, marketing, and learning styles. Ideas born by this study are already in place, and we as a Board continue to spend a large portion of our time in ‘planning for success’ under God’s blessing and direction.

One of the recognitions in our discussions is that the facilities must support all learning experiences and activities. Sounds pretty straight forward, but do we really know what a community strives for in a learning facility, today or in the future? Does it look the same as it has for the last sixty years, or has a lot changed?

There was a time in HDCH’s history that Visionaries had to put their trust in God and place their support towards an idea for Christian Education that had not yet been proven successful.

I am told that one of the reasons my grandparents moved their seed business from Sarnia to the Hamilton area some sixty-five years ago was to be closer to the promise of a new Christian high school in Hamilton. As a result of their move, my mom was privileged to be in the first graduating class at HDCH in the late 1950s.

The group is standing on the steps of Immanuel CRC (see photo above) where the school was first established. Twenty-five to thirty-five years later, my own group of siblings started to graduate from the old Athens Street facility. Fast-forward again to present day, and I am seeing my own kids -- who have attended the Glancaster Road campus -- being blessed by the place that HDCH is to so many of us.

No matter which decade we’re referring to, or which building housed the school

Like the Visionaries who created HDCH sixty years ago, we still need vision today. The Board has a passion for a school that encourages a love for education, and a love for a Christian community. We have a vision for a school that truly impacts the City of Hamilton and the world around us.

We send our kids here because we want to be faithful. For my family, this means that we want our children to be grounded in Christian learning and perspective with a vision toward making a difference in the world. And we believe we have a responsibility towards exceptional education and learning; it is why we have such a great staff and administration at HDCH.

Do you believe in an HDCH that will educate future generations for years to come? Let us continue to plant the seeds that this community has been so blessed by so that HDCH maintains its relevance in the decades that follow.

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The Future of Facilities Renewal By: Cheryl Webb, Director of Operations

“In preparing for a bright future, we needed to consider our context and our opportunities: an aging building, a changing learning landscape, an increasingly diverse population, and a growing influence across the region.”

From the Board’s presentation to Membership, November 2016

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As anyone who has been in our building lately can tell you, Hamilton District Christian High is an exciting place to be. Our students are producing beautiful work. Their characters are being shaped by learning and by community. The quality of Christian education available to our young people is attracting attention from across the country.

And, more importantly, our students are making an impact where they live. The present is very good here, and we believe that the future is equally exciting. Part of this future will involve renewal to our facilities.

The process of planning for Facilities Renewal began in 2010 when the HDCH Board mandated a Task Force to look at mortgage elimination, school renewal, and long-term sustainability.

of natural light and natural ventilation will be more energy efficient and will consider environmental impact. We are seriously considering LEED certification, which is an industry standard for green building.

Since then, we have seen the mortgage paid off, an initial renewal project (the Grove/ Atrium addition which opened last year), and the development of a renewed Facilities Master Plan.

MULTIMODAL While an increase in light and transparency will open more spaces, students still need a variety of spaces in which to work. There will continue to be classrooms. A proposed twostory quiet space will be available to those who would like to work there, and more small break-out spaces for small group work, like those in our Grove addition.

This plan was developed in light of what we learned from our addition project; the current state of our building; and changes to the Learning Mission of the school. The Board has approved this Master Plan and presented it to our Membership at the November 2016 Membership Meeting.

Here are some of the important attributes of the new Master Plan.

ADAPTABLE More multi-use spaces will exist in our building, for example, the proposed new entry to the school. This entry will be a more open and accessible gateway into our school building. It will have room for the whole student body to gather and will include places for students to work in groups or on their own. The proposed Music Hall is another such space, it will be able to function as one or two music or drama spaces, as well as be a performance space.

GREEN The proposed renewal will make better use

With these concepts in mind, the master plan will include: • technology labs, from digital and media to shops; • innovative classroom spaces; performing arts spaces; an innovative Quiet Study space • an enhanced and revamped food lab and food services; • better connections among our athletic spaces; and • enhanced hospitality and welcome centre.

All these connected by the above-mentioned entry space. All that to say, it is going to be significant!

We believe that it is in community that we can create the ideal conditions for Christcentered learning, for the cultivation of character and the development of the five habits of an HDCH graduate.

Still, we cannot separate the learning that happens in the school from the spaces in which the learning happens; our facilities and learning environments can help us achieve the results we desire. This school is not just a building, but an integral tool for accomplishing the mission and vision.

The main goal of our facility renewal plan is to enhance the learning of our students by creating exceptional learning spaces.

The long-term sustainability of our school depends on this renewal and focus, and we plan believing that this will also sustain an enrolment that allows us to bless the next generation of Christian teenagers with a facility that will assist in cultivating their character for a life of service to God. A Renewal Coalition, which includes representatives from staff, Board, architects, builders, and other knowledgeable and interested parties, is working together towards next steps. The group looks forward to engaging with various HDCH stakeholders as part of the process.

While no formal Capital Drive has begun for this project, fundraising has started. As with our recent addition, the Board is committed to funding it in a way that will be sustainable for this community. Stay tuned for more information to come about the Future of Facilities at HDCH.

#whyHDCH

Making adjustments to a technical design of a #lego #ev3 cookie decorator #ics3u #whyhdch

HDCH TRIVIA

The Union Jack was the first flag to fly at Hamilton District Christian High.

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Beautiful Work

By Jonathan DeVries, Art Educator

I remember when I was a child visiting my grandparent’s house and having my grandfather show me a model steam engine that he built by hand. The amazing thing about this model was the precision that was necessary to allow certain parts to move freely while other parts had to be tight to maintain the pressure of the steam.

Side by side, the beauty of each drawing, like any piece of art in a gallery, is very different.”

My grandfather loved the challenge of getting something like this to work since it was a way for him to be creative with his mathematical gifts. He was a quality control inspector at a manufacturing plant, and he would ensure that products were machined accurately to the thousandths of an inch. He took pride in knowing that everything that was manufactured in the plant would work properly, and the men he worked with took pride in having to make minimal refinements to their craft. This was beautiful work.

Beautiful work has more to do with the process of creating than the appearance of the product.

If you have spoken to a teacher or student at HDCH lately, you may have heard the term “beautiful work” being tossed around.

Nathan Siebenga, Principal, explains, “When I started thinking about Beautiful Work, I was working in a context that this concept would look different for all of us. I think of my youngest drawing of my Dad; it doesn’t look like him, but the creativity, imagination and risk taking is beautiful. And then I think of Nathan VanderWililk (‘16) who is a young man who can create portraits that are near perfection; the detail and the precision make his drawings beautiful.

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PHOTOS : HANK RINTJEMA

hdch.org | Spring 2017

Beautiful work is one of the core elements of project based learning, but we don’t expect all student work to be aesthetically pleasing, do we? The short answer is: we can’t, and we shouldn’t.

King David exclaims that we are fearfully and wonderfully made by our creator God. If we are made in his image, than we are all creative too. Things that are created bear the image of their creator, and this is at the heart of beautiful work.

Think of it this way; all work is a self portrait. To work, struggle, and take joy in the process of creating something requires an investment of yourself into your craft.

I had a parent once describe to me a sort of separation anxiety that he would experience each time he would finish building a fireplace for a client.

The most difficult part was leaving a client’s house at the end of a job and never again seeing work that carries the design, style, and handiwork of the creator. He admitted that it was like leaving part of himself behind at each job.

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The great thing about beautiful work is that it is not just something for artists and skilled trades people to achieve. We all know the feeling of satisfaction after struggling through something. The difficult achievements are the ones we cherish. It’s the learning experiences that come through countless errors and revisions that make something beautiful in the end.

“I would suggest that one of the ways Beautiful Work gets better is through iterations,” says Nathan. “There is a phrase used a lot around here at HDCH, ‘the first draft is the worst draft’. It suggests that we never get it right the first time. In order to improve, we need to get feedback on our work. I know for me that it is helpful to have an extra set of eyes on what I do; the feedback helps me get better.”

So, the next time you find yourself talking to a teenager about their work, ask them about the beautiful process behind the product.

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Olympian @kristaduchene talking nutrition, training cycles &life as elite athlete w/ @HDCH_Info Kinesiology students #deeperinfurtherout

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Students Teaching Students Students in the Hamilton District Christian High ESL (English as a Second Language) Program ventured out into the community to work with some local grade 6 elementary school students.

Tasked with teaching a skill, the ESL students planned and delivered a brief instructional presentation to help grade 6 students learn things like: how to count from 1 -10 in Chinese; Paper Folding techniques, Lantern Festival Riddles, and The Cup Song.

541 Eatery and Exchange

By Bethany Stief, Educational Assistant The grade 11 Connections group at HDCH made a trip to 541 Eatery and Exchange to do some Christmas outreach. Our group had the opportunity to help organize a Christmas party for a young girl’s group consisting of 18 girls.

The purpose of the 541 girl’s group is to offer mentorship to an at-risk population in the surrounding neighbourhood in order to provide positive connections and build self-esteem.

The Connections group made some decorations, handmade wooden ornaments, and baked goods for the party. We set up for the party that would happen later that evening and then spent some time connecting with each other over a delicious lunch at 541.

While we didn’t get to meet the younger girls we were throwing the party for, it was such a wonderful and unique opportunity for one group of girls to anonymously connect and minister to another.

Through the experience of learning something new at Gravity Climbing gym, the HDCH students gathered effective teaching techniques from their instructors. By debriefing this climbing event the students were able to identify helpful teaching techniques and learned specific words and expressions used when giving feedback and providing multi-step instructions.

The class prepared a script that included step by step instructions for a specific skill or activity. Students learned a lot of terminology that was specific to teaching their skill.

The culminating event was going to the elementary school and teaching multiple groups of grade 6 students the skill they had prepared.

This project allows students to develop communication skills in English in a meaningful way. Grade 6 students were a welcoming and affirming audience, so ESL students are able to take a risk in their learning in a safe environment. Our students enjoyed teaching the news skills and didn’t like saying goodbye to the grade 6 class.

First Annual Men’s Alumni 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament

By Brad Heidbuurt, Athletic Director On January 20, Hamilton District Christian High held the First Men’s Alumni 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament.

Sixteen teams registered to play, with at least three players on each team.

It was an awesome way to celebrate Athletics at HDCH, reconnect with old friends, and raise support to purchase new Knights uniforms.

The event was a huge success! It was amazing to look around and see all of the people who were blessed by sport at HDCH. JOSH HUISMAN ‘15, RICH HUISMAN ‘88, NOAH HUISMAN ‘16, ISAIAH HUISMAN ‘18

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“I formed my deepest friendships from playing sports at HDCH, and those friendships still exist today,” recalls Rich Huisman ‘88. “Playing on a team teaches you to work hard, learn to lose with class, and experience joy in winning as a team. It also teaches you valuable leadership lessons that translate directly into the workplace.”

Congratulations to the ‘Dutch Treats’ team (James Miles, John Vermeer, Dave DeJong ‘97, and Mike Schilthuis ‘99) on their tournament victory!

Their skill, energy, and execution proved to be too much for their competitors to handle. We hope to see everyone again next year!

Geography Students Test Public Transit Hamilton District Christian High Geography students had a chance to discover how long it takes to travel by public transit from their school to Ontario’s Provincial capital, and to consider from first-hand experience how public transportation in Canada is a crucial part of the solution to the nation’s economic, energy, and environmental challenges.

Starting out at 9 am, the classes rode an HSR bus to downtown Hamilton where they then caught a GO bus; they arrived in Toronto by 10:30 am. Students took the subway north to Spadina and then a streetcar to Kensington Market where they were tasked to try new food and give a homeless person a healthy lunch. After navigating their way through the 30 km underground PATH back to Union Station, the students took the GO train back to Hamilton.

It was a full day of exploring the largest urban centre in Canada by public transportation and by foot. This experience encourages HDCH students to consider how public transit is a necessary service that provides many Canadians and newcomers to Canada with access to mobility.

Checking math on high ropes

By Alex Sillett, Math Educator Math students ventured to the high ropes course to use similar triangles to determine the heights of some really big objects. The class checked their answers in the most practical way - climbing up to measure heights.

Students worked in teams to find answers, then climb to ensure they were correct. We then had a bit of fun and just challenged ourselves on the course!

Boosting the milk program at local charity By: Pauline VanderVelde, WATCH Building on a long-term relationship with Neighbourto-Neighbour (N2N), HDCH’s WATCH social justice group organized another Non-Food Food Drive (NFFD to raise money for those in need in the Hamilton region.

In doing some research, grade 11 students, Kyra Schat and Jessica Star, revealed that in Ontario alone, 358,963 people use food banks, and 34% of those people are children. Putting this into perspective, 1 in 8 Canadian families struggle with putting food on the table and, shockingly, 64,993 families struggle with this in Hamilton.

We invited Mark Raymond, Manager of Food Services for N2N, and Charlotte Redekop-Young, Manager of Emergency Services for N2N to share the needs in Hamilton, and the best way for staff and students to help out. Mark shared that it is really challenging to get money to purchase items like fresh milk. With a focus on sustainable giving, he encouraged us to raise money that could be used to purchase milk on a regular basis for their clientele.

With this vision in place, the WATCH group started their NFFD campaign. In the end, the student body raised $5,225.00! The class that raised the most money went on a tour of N2N in December to help unload fresh milk into their fridge and to see how N2N coordinates their program to meet the needs of others.

Once N2N received the funds from HDCH, they started to purchase fresh milk on a regular basis directly from wholesalers at a reduced rate to help the money stretch even further. This money will help sustain their milk program for over five months!

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Training in Progress:

An inside look at the Hamilton Police Service

“My placement has definitely made me feel more prepared for my career. I have been able to gain a solid understanding of both the physical and mental aspects of being a Police Officer. Being able to work directly with professionals in this field has been a tremendous blessing. I am always receiving advice and guidance from a group of people I have gotten to know quite well. They have encouraged me to pursue my dreams despite some of the foreseeable challenges ahead.�

MELISSA BEZEMER, Grade 12

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hdch.org | Fall 2016

PHOTOS : HANK RINTJEMA

By: Charlene Hone, Communications Specialist

IT’S NOT EVERY DAY THAT A STUDENT GETS TO TEST DRIVE THE USE OF FORCE PROGRAM WITH THE HAMILTON POLICE SERVICE. However, it seemed like a natural environment for Melissa Bezemer, grade 12, to experiment with a career in Law Enforcement.

After taking Law at HDCH, Melissa realized that this field is exactly where she wanted her career path to go, and she thought that a Co-op placement might help her to build her confidence as she explored her chosen profession. Richard VanEgmond, Director of Co-op and Venture, helped Melissa to narrow down some possibilities in the Hamilton region and set up the interview process for this highly competitive program. Once Melissa was accepted, she began to form relationships with the officers as she started her formal training.

“There was so much to love about this placement,” beams Melissa. “The thing that I enjoyed most was definitely the interactions that I had on a daily basis with Hamilton Police Officers. Whether I was chatting with one of the Use of Force Instructors on our down time, getting advice from the sworn officers who come in for training, or simply following orders, I have already been able to learn so much about what it means to be a Police Officer from the conversations I have had.”

The Use of Force program with the Hamilton Police Service usually has two students each semester; one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Selected students get a unique look at the internal workings of Training Officers and Policing in general. They must have integrity, an excellent work ethic and the ability to work independently.

“The Hamilton Police Service benefits from the contributions that students make in maintaining the program by assisting with

either the setup and teardown of training materials or participating in the training itself,” says Sargeant Scott Galbraith, Melissa’s supervisor. “I believe the community benefits by having members gain a more global perspective of the city they live in.”

humour among friends are ‘unique.’

Aside from general daily duties, Melissa was able to see firsthand the concepts and principles that are enforced by the Officers.

There is a wide range of scenarios and drills that are run by the instructors, which Melissa was able to set up prior to the officers running through them.

Over the summer, Melissa learned that in order to apply for policing, she would need to pass a strict vision test. Since she has poor vision, Melissa would have to undergo Lasik surgery in order to pass the vision screening process. However, conversations at her placement have helped to encourage Melissa’s career pursuits. She learned that there are many other types of jobs available, and plans to pursue a diploma in Community and Justice Services after graduation.

“After everything was set up, I was able to observe as officers completed a variety of scenarios that were related to situations that have happened on the streets,” says Melissa.

“Without going into too much detail, I was able to see how officers are supposed to deal with the issues that face them through the scenarios that pan out. I was also able to learn a great deal about the use of firearms by watching the officers as they shot on the range. There was always something new to learn through the wide variety of duties that I was asked to participate in.”

According to the Police Service, the Use of Force program would not be sustainable without the contributions of their co-op students. The students are very much members of the team and are treated as such.

Having Melissa in the workplace with us has made all of the members consider their words more carefully and ultimately become more courteous towards each other. She has been a great influence on us.”

Co-op placements are a valuable and rewarding experience for both the student and the employer. Co-op placements provide an excellent opportunity for students to reach ‘further out’ into our community and build relationships with reputable employers.

In return, businesses invest in the future by mentoring a students’ professional development. Please contact Richard VanEgmond (rvanegmond@hdch.org) if you are interested in hosting a co-op student at your business. We are always looking for new community partners!

“Melissa, in particular, has surpassed the expectations of all the members of the Use of Force Instructor cadre,” says Sergeant Galbraith. “She has demonstrated an attention to detail that is very much appreciated in a student, as it is an attribute we look for in the character of the individual selected for the Instructor program itself.

Overall, I have been surprised by Melissa’s personality. I believe she is the most genuine, courteous and generally nice person I have ever met. This semester she worked in an environment where the language and

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Co operative Education

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

By Richard Van Egmond, Director of Co operative Education

PARTNERING WITH OUR COMMUNITY The HDCH Co op program provides a range of opportunities for students to gain on site, real world experience as they explore and consider their vocation and career pathways. This past semester, 28 students completed placements with over 30 different employers,across a range of industry and business sectors. Placement supervisors bless our students by providing training, career mentoring, meaningful learning opportunities, as well as constructive feedback and the chance to develop employability skills. In a number of cases, students were offered future job opportunities as well.

We are grateful to the following employers for their generous support:

• Beattie Animal Hospital (Vet tech assistant) • Bellstead Farms (Dairy farm) • Brierwood Gardens (Recreational Therapy) • Caledonia Physiotherapy (Physio/Office Administration) • Calvin Christian School (Grade 6 Class) • Cedar Lane Landscaping (Construction) • Dan Acre Farms (Custom Fieldwork/Maintenance) • Doughty & Williamson (Agricultural Supply Sales) • Dundas Imaging (X Ray and Ultra Sound) • Dutch Mill Gardens (Product Shipping/Fieldwork) • EconoTech Auto (Automotive Service) • Enliven Day Spa & Salon (Customer Service Assistance) • Fitzii (HR Customer Support) • Hamilton Artists (Gallery/Exhibit Planning) • Hamilton Police Service (Use of Force Training) • Hamilton Warplane Museum (Heritage Aircraft Service/ Restoration) • Holtrop Steel & Iron Works (Welding/Fabrication)

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• Juravinski Cancer Centre (Patient Support/Symptom Assessment Software) • Larry’s Backhoe Service (Excavation/Maintenance) • New Electric (Commercial Service and Installation) • Owl Kids (Website and Print Editing/Archiving) • Population Health Research Institute (Software Development/ Coding) • Princess Submarines (Customer Service) • Providence Christian School (Grade 4 Assistant) • Queensway Veterinary Hospital (Vet tech assistant) • Tourism Hamilton (Marketing/Website content) • Urban Parisian (Pastry Cook) • Westdale Florists (Customer Service/Floral arranging) • Westmount Terrace (Recreational Therapy) • Wintronics Computers (Ancaster) (Computer Service/Repair) • Yellow Dog Grooming (Washing/Grooming) • 1087230 Ontario Inc. (Broiler Breeder Operation)

HDCH Winter Residency:

Staff Professional Development Days

By Christy Bloemendal, Vice-Principal Each February, the HDCH staff takes two days back-to-back to dig deeply into professional development activities. This set of PD days has come to be known as the “Winter Residency.”

Over the past year and a half, we have been focusing our learning mission on going “Deeper-In and Further-Out.” We desire our students to experience deep learning where meaning is made, connections are created, and purpose for learning is understood. We believe that Project Based Learning is an excellent pedagogy for our staff to use in challenging our students to go deeper.

Through in-depth inquiry; critique and revision opportunities; involving community experts; presenting to authentic audiences; having the opportunity for voice and choice; and students becoming their own project managers; we believe that comprehension and skill development go deep.

Our Mission Statement is Cultivating Character through Learning for Lives of Service to God. We think that cultivating character and serving God compels us to bring our learning Further Out into the community, engaging experts and audiences, and finding ways to bless those in our city and world through our learning.

Deeper In and Further Out are strongly linked. As students take their learning Further Out, they end up getting Deeper In. And as students go Deeper In they often find they are pulled Further Out, coming to understand how their learning is meaningful in the world.

The focus of Deeper In and Further Out has guided our professional development over the past year and a half. This year at our Winter Residency we created opportunities to go Deeper In and Further Out as a staff.

We went Deeper In through professional development workshops. We engaged with strategies and research on how to help students with diverse learning needs engage with Project Based Learning. Building on this workshop, we will be continuing to work as a staff team towards implementing strategies and shaping projects to help all learners go Deeper In. During the residency, staff also had the chance to pursue Further Out learning opportunities by taking time to meet with experts, scoping out field trip locations, and researching authentic audiences for projects.

Ancient History class presenting & getting feedback on their museum artefact projects from #HamOnt museum curator. #deeperinfurtheroutHDCH

Field trips, experts, and authentic audiences in Project Based Learning often lead to incredible learning opportunities where students have the chance to connect with experts in the field to ask questions, learn about how the knowledge and skills are used in the work world, and be exposed to the cutting edge of information in that field.

Making these connections can be challenging and time consuming for teachers, so it was great to have time and space for this during Winter Residency.

In addition to these specific Deeper In and Further Out sessions, small group collaboration sessions happened where teachers had different opportunities for project improvement and development. Examples of these sessions included developing new projects and creating digital assessment tools.

We do a lot of work during the residency, and it can be very intense. We also try to build some fun into our time together to enrich our sense of collegiality and community. We spent time in devotions, reflecting on God’s goodness, praying for our school and students, and singing together.

There is a richness of expertise, creativity and desire to be excellent in our staff here at HDCH and it is wonderful to have so many involved in leading and helping our staff team to grow. We look forward to a great semester ahead and are thankful for the time we had to grow and work together during the Residency.

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Are you up for the challenge?

We are grateful for the many supporters and visionaries of the past and present that have made – and continue to make -- HDCH possible. To commemorate our 60th year of Christian education, you’re invited to take the 60 for 60 challenge!

we’re looking for

thank you!

60 NEW MONTHLY DONORS 60 DONORS WHO CAN GIVE $60, $600, OR $6,000

Thank you in advance for supporting HDCH and continuing to make exceptional Christian education vibrant and accessible!

60 NEW DONORS Please join the challenge and donate today.

Funds raised by this challenge will support on-going facility and program development at HDCH. You can give: • online at hdch.org/60 • by mail, or • by calling Gillian Doucet Campbell, our Director of Admissions and Advancement, at 905-648-6655, ext. 113.

She would be delighted to hear from you.

$60 FOR 60 DONATE TODAY Congrats to HDCH Knights Jr. Boys basketball team on a great season - Silver Medal city of Hamilton champs! @HDCH_Info

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1973 GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM

hdch.org/events Membership Meeting & the voice

Join in the conversation as we share what’s happening at HDCH.

may 1st

may

18-27

Senior’s Day

Happy Birthday to us!

Students and staff cordially invite all grandparents and senior members of our community to our annual Seniors’ Day. Enjoy the morning program, visit students and staff in class, and RSVP to stay for a hot lunch.

join us for a day of great memories with HDCH alumni while we celebrate our 60th anniversary. See the timeline of events on page 25.

may 4th

spring play

Enjoy our student performances on select nights at 7pm @ HDCH.

JAM Camp

Junior Art and Maker Session

july

11-15

For students who will be going into grade 6-9. Campers will enjoy one or two sessions of art or design.

connect with us:

may 27th

Celebration of Learning

june 8th

Join us on this summer evening and see what exceptional work the students of HDCH are doing. There will be presentations, performances, food, displays and discussions all around the school. It will be a true celebration! Take this opportunity to stroll around the school and engage with the students.

Sport Camps basketball

aug 14-18

Golf Tournament FUNDRAISING EVENT

sept 17th

volleyball

aug 21-25 This camp is designed for both male and female athletes going into grade 7 - 9 with of all levels of ability.

Join us at Flamborough Hills for the annual HDCH Golf Tournament!

Share a great day of fun, laughter, food and golf.

@HDCH_info

HDCH.info

whyHDCH

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I know this much is true By: Karin Boonstra & Sara Whetstone, Grade 11 English Teachers

poem

By Magdalaina Teeuwsen, Grade 11

As teachers, we desire to create a safe space for students to reflect on their own experiences and see the worth in sharing these experiences with their peers. We have found that, through sharing their own experiences, students are able to better understand and empathize with their classmates.

Since all students are valued as image-bearers of Christ, they all have an important story to tell. As Christians, we are called to better understand ‘the other,’ and what better way to start than with the people we are with on a daily basis.

In order to carve out a space for this dialogue in our classrooms, we asked students to write a personal speech that fit into the topic of ‘ Choices.’

The topic was open to interpretation: some students reflected very deeply on a choice that they had faced or have yet to face; others were more factual in their topic, offering advice on a subject that is important to themselves and could be useful to others.

The project offered voice and choice in the chosen topic, opportunity to revise and create multiple drafts, space to reflect on individual performance, and a forum for peer feedback.

To start with, many students had a hard time coming up with a topic. Often they felt as if they had nothing important to share or that their topic would be too personal to share in front of the class. However, students were consistently encouraged throughout the process and given feedback to support their decisions.

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STUDENT REFLECTIONS “Initially I was very worried about the personal aspect of this assignment. I am a very reserved, shy person, so I was not excited about sharing a personal story with a class of people. In the end, people I don’t usually talk to told me afterwards how much they liked my speech, and so I feel like I know some of my classmates a bit better.”

“Getting to know my classmates, their struggles, their passions, and just simply their perspective on life has been amazing. I have loved and appreciated every speech that I listened to and have developed a deeper respect and love for each individual.”

“I think that in a way, our speech unit was a sort of journey that built trust between everyone, in the same way that a long road trip or camping expedition would. Along the way, we all faced challenges, enjoyed little victories, encouraged each other, and witnessed all the effort that was being poured into each other’s work.”

To say that we have been blown away by the quality of speeches is an understatement. So many of the students bravely shared critical experiences from their own pasts which affect classmates in the most meaningful ways.

Additionally, the feedback that they provided for each other was encouraging, loving, and deeply empathetic. We were thoroughly impressed with the high level of commitment, maturity, and enthusiasm from our students.

We met in the summer, days of Polaroids and daydreams She was fleeting moonlight, fluttering hope, flippant joy and I wanted nothing more than to replace my memories with her stories She was the reflection in the pond She was the wind in the willows She was the rope to a sinking hopeful And the ground was beneath our feet And the clouds above our heads They told us not to pick up cubs Or the mother would come after us And she laughed, because she was laughter But she had to pick up bear cubs She had to snatch at faraway stars So suddenly, we were crashing The waves throwing us against the rocks Tearing to shreds our hastily formed ideals She was boldness and daring but that brought Eternal black nights And sinister moonlight.

But as we all know, sun follows moons In an endless carousel of hope and grief and midnight So we picked up the pieces of our thoughts We caught the last wisps of past daydreams And we gathered our scattered stories She was something I couldn’t put my finger on And I liked that lifetimes ago Until I hit the ground But she is still hope and joy and light When the stars aligned And the grass is green.

Read Magdalaina’s speech: hdch.org/consciously-creating/

A peek @ HD today: Collecting Physics data w/ student-created rocketcars & learning biomechanics in motion lab for Kinesiology #deeperinHDCH

Proud of our Snowboard team who raced well @ OFSAASnow today. The icy conditions were no match for their determination and speed. #whyhdch

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Thank you Thank you for sharing your memories, your stories and your photos with us. We know how much everyone will enjoying catching up and connecting again.

Allyson Cann ‘07

Brad Heidbuurt ‘95

FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH

FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH

Roaming the hallways on the first day of every school year, catching up with friends

Playing sports.

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW:

I love coaching and helping teens learn more about being active and playing sports.

Working as a registered nurse ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: Listen to Mr. Hordyk! Everything really is chemistry!

ADVICE TO NEW GRADS: “Stay focused. Have a vision, leave it to God and go for it! “

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW:

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: Play more sports. Don’t feel like you need to live up to a label.

ADVICE TO NEW GRADS: “Use your gifts to glorify God and serve him. He has amazing guidance for you if you seek Him first.”

Gerty (Voortman) Hoogerbrugge ‘69* FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH Many of us would drop in at Hank and Liz Nienhuis’ for coffee on the weekend in the summer; the Grade 12 camping trip; we had some very great speakers at chapel.

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW:

1998-1999

Married, 3 kids, 5 grandkids. Worked at the Grimsby Public Library for 18 years. Moved to PEI 7 years ago. My husband and I are retired and run a youth drop in Centre called Souris Kids.

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2003 ski trip

FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH Grade 12 Drama with Henk Nienhuis , class intramurals & sports teams ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: Take advantage of all opportunities - time in highs chool flies by!

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF:

ADVICE TO NEW GRADS:

Most of the things you worry about never happen.

“Get involved , seek out opportunities, discover your gifts & have fun”

* Graduated at Ancaster High. Last year at HDCH was 1969.

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Richard Loebert ‘83

Wilma (Lammers) Nicholls ‘81

James Kralt ‘92

John Henson ‘72

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW:

FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH

FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH

After many moves and challenges, I returned to university at the age of 40. I received several degrees and joyfully greet each day as a secondary school teacher, mother, wife and grandmother.

Getting to go on the band and choir tours to Ottawa & Washington DC

HDCH was the place I met and eventually married the love of my life.

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW:

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW:

I got married, and my wife and I have four kids. I taught high school in Alberta for six years, and I’ve been serving as a pastor at a church in Michigan for almost ten years.

I became a teacher after high school.

Next 13 years was spent raising 3 children and teaching in BC. Moved back to Ontario after accepting a new teaching opportunity and divorced in 1994. Renewed my relationship with and married Ruth Spoelstra. God is good!

Raised a blended family of six. Worked in family business for 15 years as Corporate Director of HR. Retired when company sold, recruited back into teaching parttime at Brantford Christian School for 5 years. Retired summer of 2016.

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: Just keep plugging away.....life will sort itself out; keep focused on the strength God provides.

ADVICE TO NEW GRADS: “Life is hard. Some days there seems to be more rain than sunshine, but remember that God provides the rain to make the garden grow.”

Helen (Laman) Rogers ‘65 FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH At Christmas time we sang carols in each class; Latin carols in Latin class, French carols in French class, German carols in German class, etc

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: Keep doing your best, but remember that there’s more to life than school and grades and homework.

ADVICE TO NEW GRADS: “Enjoy your time in high school, even those times when things get tough.

Remember that it’s still just the beginning-there’s a lot more to life. Even though it doesn’t always get easier, a lot of it is really good. Make sure that you take time now to start cultivating the most important relationship you’ll have in your life--your relationship with God. Discover your gifts and have fun”

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: Don’t change a thing at school. Be thankful for my parent’s decision and sacrifice as they sent me to HDCH. Follow through with my first real relationship. Wait for the Lord’s leading before acting. Pursue a heart commitment to Jesus.

ADVICE TO NEW GRADS: “Get into a right relationship with Jesus Build strong, godly, lasting relationships.

Do your very best in high school because your results will inevitably help carve your future. Every day is precious.....don’t even miss one day in which you can somehow glorify God. Believe that Jesus is walking right alongside you whatever your challenges and will carry you if you ask.”

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW: Studied nursing at St. Joseph Hospital, then moved to the USA and continued nursing. Married and raised a family. This year I retired.

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: Set goals, study diligently, and with God’s help, you will reach those goals.

ADVICE TO NEW GRADS: “Strive to achieve your goals.”

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1973

Here’s a picture of my friends and I in 1973 on the steps of HDCH. It’s the only picture I have of those years. Don’t you just love those pants?

Submitted by: Winny Veenbaas (Riewald)

Joyce Bergsma ‘90

Amanda (Paterson) Pasma ‘97

Letitia (Guenther ) Fluit ‘99

FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH

FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH

FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH

Playing on the basketball team and making great friends.

Concert Band, Friends, English Class, Quebec Trip

Friendships

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW:

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW:

After HD, I went to University of Waterloo and then left to work and travel in Europe and around the world. I am still travelling, but am based in Amsterdam.

I attended Redeemer University/College for 4 1/2 years (one of those years spent living in Paris, France). Following this I went to Teacher’s College (I did my student placement at HDCH). I met and married a wonderful man named Chad and taught at London District Christian Secondary School for one year. I didn’t quite make it through one year of teaching as we had our first child, Alexis in the spring of 2004. I have taught on and off and have done some substitute teaching between having our other 4 children (Dominique 2005, Nina 2006, Zachary 2008 and Rowan 2010), but for the most part I stayed home to care for my children until Rowan started Junior Kindergarten. I now work as an administrator at a Motorcycle Dealership.

Lots more education! HDCH was a great jumping off point.

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: What you think about yourself is the most important; if that’s not right, find a way to work that out before worrying about what anyone else thinks. Follow your dreams and don’t let fear stop you as it all works out in the end.

ADVICE TO NEW GRADS: The same advice I would give myself.

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: Think about your future, but enjoy your present.

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW:

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: Don’t get caught up with the little things.

ADVICE TO NEW GRADS “You have a great foundation...keep growing!”

Karin (Cook) Boonstra ‘84 FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH I loved drama class and being a part of the school play.

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW: Life hasn’t always led me in the direction I was expecting, but it has always led me back to HD, both as a professional and as a parent.

1998-1999

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: Focus!

1984 Weight Lifting Team 22

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ADVICE TO NEW GRADS: “Relax :)”

Ruth (Kingma) Haan ‘67*

Kate-lynn (Kemper) Boesveld ‘09

Ruth (Spoelstra) Hensen ‘72

FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH

FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH

FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH

Friends and caring teachers.

Athletics and the amount of the school students, I loved knowing everybody there.

I have many! Probably any number of conversations and situations shared with wonderful teachers and fellow students at HDCH.

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW: I married in 1969, had 4 children. Now am the proud grandma of 9 grandchildren. I worked retail for 30 years. I had to retire early because of health. I now volunteer for 2 charities. Feeling blessed.

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: Work hard, it has it’s rewards.

ADVICE TO NEW GRADS: “Be thankful for what you have, and stay focused on your goals.” * Ruth was unable to complete grade 12 for health reasons, missing the last few months and therefore did not graduate with her class.

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW: I received my diploma from the HWF co-op program at Mohawk College. Today I have my Fitness Instructor certification and am in the process of completing my Personal Training certificate. I am a boot camp coach at Fit Body Boot Camp in Cambridge and I love having such a positive impact on people.

I married my high school sweetheart, Scott, whom I’ve know for over 10 years now. We love to go camping, portaging, snowboarding and pretty much anything to do with the outdoors. We have 2 energetic border collie dogs.

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF:

Alice (VanBuren) Reid ‘67 FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH HDCH was a small community. I felt very safe.

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW: I have a very blessed life with children and grandchildren. I loved my work life as a Financial Advisor at a bank and tax specialist in my retirement. I love working with people which I do with my church family.

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: Be more outgoing.

Put your trust in God; He will do what He thinks is best for you. I spent so much time worrying about things and spent less time praying about it. I still struggle with that today but I have more comfort knowing He is there.

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW: I became a R.P.N.after grade 12. Married in ‘75 had 4 children, divorced in ‘86, remarried in ‘94 to John Hensen class of ‘72, high school sweetheart. I have retired after 42 years of nursing in Sept.

2016. I enjoy our six children and nine grandchildren entering the golden years!

Life Rocks!

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: I loved high school! Due to financial constraints, I attended a public high school for grade 10. When I returned to HDCH I knew there was no where else I’d rather be.

I celebrated each day.

ADVICE TO MY NEW GRADS: “You’ll have many choices to make in the years to come. Be wise! Always remember who you are, where you come from, and where you’re going.”

ADVICE TO NEW GRADS: “It’s okay to not know what you want to do for school or a career. This is a big chapter in your life and it’s okay if you don’t have it all figured out. I had absolutely no idea and I took a year off to figure it out. It was great to experience something other than school. My advice is to always put your trust in God, pray about it. He will lead you where he wants you to be. “

John & Rut h Hense n

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Jack Scholtens ‘69

Joanne (Tigchelaar) Heidbuurt ‘65

Jacob (Jake) VanDyk ‘63

FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH

FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH

FONDEST MEMORY OF HDCH

Winning at track and field events.

The plays and the choir concerts.

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW:

A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW:

After graduating from the University of Guelph, I backpacked through Europe then joined the family candy business.

Settled in Calgary with my wife Cathy DeBoersap, also a graduate of HDCH. When our children were older, we came back to Ontario. Our 6 children attended HDCH and I served on the Board of HDCH.

Married, 4 children (all of whom graduated from HDCH, 15 grand children (7 of whom graduated from HDCH), and 1 great grand child. Worked in the office of our business until I retired.

It was quite a small school at the time; so we knew most of the students quite well ... and the teachers. Perhaps this was both a good and bad thing!?!?

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF:

ADVICE TO NEW GRADS:

I should have maxed out my involvement in school activities, especially the non academic ones :-)

“Use all that you have learned there to the glory of God.”

ADVICE TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF: I should have studied harder.

ADVICE TO NEW GRADS: Remain involved and give back.

From left to right: Gerda Winter, Nell Van Wyngaarden, Liz Vander Wel, Joanne Winter, Ellen Winter, Alice Schipper, Wilma Schipper, Cecil Alkema (the “lone boy”), Helen Vander Wel, the driver was Mrs. Van Bruggen.

Submitted by C. Alkema

“Brantford Gr oup”

Grade 10, 1960-61 From Left to right are Jake Van Dyk, Bruce de Boer, Ria Klein and Peter Karsten. At that time, individual desks were not yet available. This picture was sent to me by Bruce de Boer.

Submitted by Jacob Van Dyk

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A LITTLE ABOUT ME NOW: Did a bachelor’s degree in Physics at McMaster. Taught at HDCH for 1 year.

Met my wife, Christine, during that year.

Did a Master’s degree at Western in Radiation Physics. Worked for 24 years as a Medical Physicist at the Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto. Received an academic appointment at U of T. In 1995, moved to London, ON to become Head of Clinical Physics at the London Regional Cancer Centre. Published 4 books as editor or co-editor on The Modern Technology in Radiation Oncology and Advances in Medical Physics. Worked as a consultant at the United Nations-related International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, Austria. Officially retired from my position at the Cancer Centre at the end of 2010 and now considered Professor Emeritus at Western. Was honored with the Gold Medal from the Canadian Organization of Medical Physicists in 2011 and received an honorary Doctor of Science from Western in 2014. Recently, was the main founder of Medical Physics for World Benefit (mpwb.org). It’s amazing how a small high school with minimal resources was able to prepare me for a career and life beyond all expectations!

ADVICE TO NEW GRADS: “Don’t sweat the small stuff! Be bold and step out of your comfort zone! Success takes persistence and hard work.”

JOIN US

60th

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

RAIN OR S HIN E!

OPEN HOUSE CELEBRATION ACTIVITIES Saturday, May 27th | 10am - 3pm | 92 Glancaster Road, Ancaster

6:00PM

10AM

11:30 - 1PM

A GREAT WAY TO START THE DAY

BY DONATION

Savour a cup of coffee while you wander through HDCH and check out the kids activities with family.

Enjoy a delicious lunch while you wander through the exhibits and chat with fellow alumni.

COFFEE & CAKE

BBQ LUNCH

KIDS ACTIVITIES

LES MISERABLES

TICKETED EVENT Join us for a great evening of drama, music and desserts as we present Les Miserable. Tickets can be purchased online at: hdch.org/60

ART SHOW

10AM - 2PM

10AM - 3PM

MUSIC

10AM - 3PM

ARTIFACTS

10AM - 3PM

1:15PM

ALUMNI SOCCER GAME PLAY OR WATCH

11AM

Cheer on your Knights or choose to play in a friendly game of soccer on the south field.

OFFICIAL WELCOME We want to say a few words to commemorate this very special birthday.

Help us make this a great day - get involved!

ARTIFACTS FROM HDCH’S PAST We’re looking for textiles such as track suits, letter jackets, and the like. We’re also looking for Drama production programs, graduation programs, posters, bookmarks, plates, mugs, glasses, and spoons.

ART AND AUTHOURS We’re looking for alumni artists and authours to display their work during the 60th Anniversary Celebration. If you have a piece or several pieces please connect with Connie Bijl at clbijl90@gmail.com.

Something that represents HDCH’s past.

If you have something you don’t mind lending or giving to HDCH to display at the 60th Celebration, please connect with Gillian Doucet Campbell, Director of Admissions and Advancement at gdoucetcampbell@hdch.org 905-648-6655, ext. 113.

SOCCER PLAYERS Did you play soccer while a student at HDC or do you play soccer now? Come play on a team during the 60th celebration. Please connect with HDCH’s Athletic Director, Brad Heidbuurt at bheidbuurt@hdch.org.

MUSICIANS We’re looking for musical guests to perform throughout the day. Please connect with Marsha Heeg at marshaheeg@bell.net.

3 GENERATION HDCH FAMILIES Do you have 3 generations that have or are attending HDCH? Please connect with Gillian Doucet Campbell, Director of Admissions and Advancement at gdoucetcampbell@hdch.org or 905-648-6655, ext. 113.

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shelter medicine and as a surgeon for the OSPCA. I am currently employed as a small animal vet at Grand River Veterinary Hospital in Caledonia.

During university and becoming a vet, I had expectations of where my life would go. But circumstances changed this and new doors opened. It’s been an incredible journey and I love that veterinary medicine is so diverse with many opportunities and areas of discipline.

From the Outback to Moosonee By: Steph Spiegelaar (Dr. Stephanie Dam) ‘01

If you asked me in high school where I would be in fifteen years, I probably would have told you something to do with animals and travel. And really, life as I know it is not that far off. I grew up in a family that loved to travel and learned to appreciate new experiences and culture. Same thing for animals: I have always loved being around them, learning about them and caring for them.

I have so many great memories, both in and out of the classroom, from my days at HDCH. One teacher, in particular, Mr. Darryl Deboer, made a lifelong impact on me and he is partly responsible for where I am today.

He encouraged my love of science and even suggested that I should pursue a career as a veterinarian. At that time, it seemed like a pipedream. I hadn’t even considered going to university. I didn’t believe I was capable of the grades that I achieved later in high school and university.

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After graduating from HDCH in 2001, I headed to Guelph to study Zoology, although I didn’t fully understand what a zoologist really was. I decided to take a year off after 3rd year as I couldn’t see where my career would go and I was doing poorly in my courses. I left for Australia and worked on a cattle station training Australian Stock Horses. Being in the outback and working with animals (and nursing a few sick ones back to health) was exactly what I needed to refocus. I returned to Canada and switched my major to a focus in Biomedical Science.

I thrived in the anatomy, physiology and pathology courses.

I was accepted into the Veterinary program in 2009 with plans to be a large animal veterinarian. After graduation, I practiced as a large animal vet (mostly on cattle and horses). However, a life-threatening antibiotic allergy switched my path to practicing solely with small animals, working next in

For the past eight years, I have volunteered in local First Nations communities as part of veterinary wellness clinics.

I recently spent a month in the James Bay region living and working with seven First Nation communities on a Rabies Project. First Nation communities have a higher proportion of animals that never receive veterinary care. I have noticed that there is a lack of education about zoonotic diseases between humans and animals. What struck me most was my own ignorance of the real struggles that our First Nations people live with. I have always felt a strong urge to use my education for Christ in some way. These experiences opened my eyes to the potential of very localized mission in my field.

Looking back, HDCH provided a great framework to build my perspective on life, and how to function as a Christian in our world. I believe it was my HDCH education that cultivated my compassion to help others, to care for animals, and to respect God’s world.

My advice for current students? Take the time to find where your strengths and passions lie. Volunteer in areas that interest you.

Get working experience, travel, and discover God’s creation. If you listen, God will guide your path and give you more than you could ever ask or imagine. I am beyond blessed to have a rewarding job using the gifts and talents that God has entrusted me with.

Knights on Ice By: Jan Van Eek, Head Coach In October 2014, HDCH’s Hockey Team joined the Ligue des Grands Lacs - Great Lakes Hockey League. The league hosts eight regular season games over the winter months with playoffs in March.

“Hockey generally draws students who wouldn’t normally participate in other sports or activities at HDCH. It gives the students a chance to display their skills and get to know some of their fellow students.” Jan Van Eek, Head Coach Last year, the HDCH Knights won their division in an exciting, sudden death, shootout victory over the previously undefeated Oakville Ecole Secondaire Catholique Sainte-Trinite. It was a fantastic way to end the season! However, the team graduated nine players, meaning the Knights would be in a rebuild year heading into 2016.

The Knights kicked off the 2016-2017season with brand new jerseys.

They were a welcome surprise for the team.

Congratulations to the HD Hockey Team, who earned 29 of 30 points in our final league games. The goal of the day was a water bottle launching rocket by Jacob Knegt. The hit of the day was by Howie Nigh on Philip Demik. Trevor DeVries anchored us in net with a shutout and a GAA of 1.00.

At the time of this article, the team finished tied for 2nd with 102 points, but by virtue of better team discipline, secured the 2nd spot, earning a bye into the semi-finals.

“We have the talent to succeed, but need to work well together to knock off the final teams” To follow the team’s success, visit www.lhgl.ca for league rankings, schedules and updates.

Go Knights Go!

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Spanish Exchange

@ Hamelin Laie

By: Charlene Hone, Communications Specialist For the last two years, Hamilton District Christian High has maintained a partnership with Hamelin Laie, an established private school on the Spanish Riviera. This past semester, Griffin Dekok, grade 12, had the opportunity to participate in an exchange with Hamelin Laie, and just recently returned to Canada. He first heard about the exchange in HDCH’s daily announcements and was intrigued by the possibility of traveling to and learning in another country.

While in Spain, Griffin lived in a town called Premia de Mar, in an area referred to as Maresme (about 50 km of coast just north of Barcelona, and just south of the Costa Brava). He took the train to school daily (a far cry from his five-minute walk to HDCH), and enjoyed living near the beach, near the hub of city life.

“The culture in and around Barcelona is very relaxed and laid back,” recalls Griffin. “I found this so different from the pace of life and cultural norms in Canada. Here, people go out almost every weekend and relax or party with their friends. I have experienced so much more nightlife than I thought I would while I have been in Spain.”

One of the biggest challenges for any global travel is the language barrier. When Griffin arrived in Spain he knew less than ten words. Now he is practically fluent and able to interact quite seamlessly with teachers and peers. He was able to have high-level conversations with peers about different points of view in terms of economics, social policy, and interpersonal relationships.

Griffin also had to adjust to a different meal schedule. In Spain, most people don’t eat three square meals a day. They eat a small breakfast before coming to school, then have a sandwich around 11:00 a.m. At around 2:00 p.m. they eat a leisurely lunch that can last up to three hours, followed by dinner between 8:00 and 10:00 p.m.

Griffin is looking forward to being back at HDCH for the second semester with his closeknit group of friends and “teachers that are willing to go to great lengths to help you do your best.”

w friends in a ne ng ki a m ed y jo en y “I reall language he t p u d ke ic p I nd a new country, am capable of I t ha t ed rn a e l I . y very quickl I am. It is in an nk hi t I n ha t e or m so much forget!” experience I’ll never k Griffin Deko

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That being said, Griffin would definitely encourage another student to participate in a long-term exchange. “While it does take a certain personality to be away from family and friends for six months,” explains Griffin, “it is definitely worth the leap. I really enjoyed making new friends in a new country, and I picked up the language very quickly. I learned that I am capable of so much more than I think I am. It is in an experience I’ll never forget!”

Jeff vividly remembers the road trips in the 15 passenger van to meets and listening to all the great 90’s music along the way.

“It was easy to be successful,” recalls Jeff. “Mr. Plantinga was always such an encouraging coach no matter what the outcome.”

Celebrating a Running Legacy Jeff Summerhays ‘95 went to OFSAA for Cross Country with Mr. Plantinga in his Grade 12 year, in the Fall of 1994. Jeff was one of the first Cross Country athletes that Mr. Plantinga had ever coached at this provincial competition.

This past fall, Ethan Summerhays, grade nine, competed at OFSAA for Cross Country at Trinity College in Port Hope. Interestingly, Ethan will be the last athlete that Mr. Plantinga will coach at OFSAA as he retires this summer after 43 years of service to our community.

“OFSAA was an amazing experience,” says Ethan Summerhays. “It was awesome to be around so many people who share a passion for running, and it was thrilling to compete in such a big race with so much excitement and energy. It is a day I will never forget.”

“Like my dad, I have also appreciated the encouragement I received from Mr. Plantinga and the older athletes,” said Ethan. “It was interesting to hear about Mr. Plantinga’s marathon running experiences and the running culture he established at HDCH many years ago.”

Ethan is already looking forward to running Cross Country for HDCH next year, but it will certainly be a different vibe without Mr. Plantinga on staff. The Athletics program will miss his coaching experience and his passion for sport.

All the best in your retirement, Mr. Plantinga!

WATCH Partners with local Mission

By Pauline VanderVelde, Food and Nutrition Teacher The concept of running a winter clothing drive at HDCH was in the planning stages for our WATCH (Working At Teaching Children Hope) group when Dillon Vyn, a WATCH member presented the idea of giving what we collected to the Salvation Army Soup Truck. Dillon has a unique connection to this mission because his grandparents are regular volunteers for this mission that runs 362 days per year and feeds approximately 200 people per night.

The Salvation Army Soup Truck serves: a soup of the day, sandwiches, leftover donuts from Tim Hortons, and juice. Whenever donations are provided they hand out clothes, blankets, sleeping bags, jackets, gloves, hats, and socks. The truck makes three stops between 7:30 and 10:00 pm.

This mission serves the homeless and other individuals who have a permanent shelter but do not have enough money to buy food or provide for their family.

Over several weeks, WATCH had been collecting items to be given to the soup truck.

We were blessed with winter coats, sweaters, blankets, mittens, hats, socks, snow pants and even regular street clothes.

As these items arrived they were passed onto Dillon’s grandparents to be handed out. On October 25, Dillon went with his grandparents to volunteer at the soup van.

“We arrived at the Salvation Army Center in Hamilton at around 7:30 pm, where I met the driver, Gregory Winton,” said Dillon.

“Then we went to the first stop, where there were people already lined up. We

poured some juice and soup into cups so that we were ready before we opened the window. My Oma took their orders while my Opa poured soup. I poured juice and placed the leftover Tim Hortons donuts and muffins in the paper bags. Gregory went out to talk to the people and made coffee when we ran out.

If they asked for clothes, we gave them some, or let them look through the box.

One guy that was already wearing five sweatshirts and coats asked for another sweater after because he was shivering.”

It is amazing to learn about what is happening in our community on a nightly basis. What a privilege it is to share this with the students at HDCH while encouraging our students to give to this worthwhile cause.

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Student Life: A Greek Persepctive This September, Thea Dimakis, grade 12 and Katerina Dimakis, grade 10 joined our student body. They are originally from Greece and only moved here last June. While there have been some slight language barriers (and a deep longing for delicious, authentic souvlaki!), these two sisters are adjusting well to life in Canada and enjoying their student experience at Hamilton District Christian High.

Katerina and Thea first heard about HDCH from a friend of their father’s who had graduated from HDCH many years ago. He told them some pretty impressive things about the school, the teachers, and the way teaching is done. They thought that they should seriously consider it as one of their main options.

Every year we are privileged to welcome students from various places of the world to the learning community at Hamilton District Christian High.

Has there been anything surprising about your student experience so far?

THEA: I am surprised by the amount of work that teachers put into their students. It is amazing to see how much they care and strive for our success, how many plans they make in order to help us accomplish our goals, and how much they fight to help us form a good personality so that we can be good Christians and good people.

KATERINA: We have been mostly surprised by the support we receive from both teachers and students. Since the first day we arrived at the school, everyone has tried to be helpful and make sure that we are able to blend in and get used to the system.

How does your educational experience at HDCH compare to your learning back in Greece? What are some of the biggest similarities and differences?

While in Greece, we attended the General High School of Pastra. The education there is very different to that education that is provided by HDCH. At HDCH we are taught how to learn, and in Greece, we are taught how to repeat.

At HDCH we learn and apply the things we need in order to move forward, but in Greece, we were asked to memorize the opinion of the books and then repeat that opinion in the exams in order to be ‘successful.’ We were graded based on the percentage of exact memorization we had managed to do the week before exams.

What is the biggest thing you have learned about yourself as a student? As a person? As a Greek citizen?

THEA: As a student, I have learned that I can do and succeed much more than what I thought I could, and I can learn new things quicker.

“Through this school we were able to learn many things about Canada, which have helped us to fit in, while maintaining our identities as Greek-Canadians.”

I realized what I am capable of through my classes, as I had to do things I thought were impossible for me to accomplish. As a person, I have discovered more things about myself. I learned that I can be even more hard-working and focused on my goals when I want something really bad.

I realized that there are so many things I have yet to discover through my education.

I am determined to learn as much as I can.

By coming to Canada, I was able to really appreciate the Greek culture, language, and history, and I got to see how other people truly view us.

1981 FRENCH TRIP

KATERINA: As an HDCH student, I am able to finally detect my ability to achieve goals and reach my full potential. I have learned how to study properly and not to simply memorize in order to succeed. I also learned how the rest of the world views the Greek culture and appreciates what our ancestors have offered.

Both Katerina and Thea would happily encourage other students to attend HDCH. They loved how the people at school have been very pleasant, and joyfully showed and taught them many things in order to be successful.

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hdch.org | Spring 2017

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Three Generations… and Counting

By Cheryl Webb, Director of Operations

Rene Dam started Grade 9 at Hamilton District Christian High in 1958. His sister Alida (now Vanderkruk, ‘60) was already an HDCH student, and two younger sisters would begin after him. In 1958, school was held in the basement of Immanuel Christian Reformed Church, still located at Mohawk & West 5th in Hamilton.

For over half of HDCH’s 60 year history, there has been a member of Rene Dam’s immediate family in attendance. The first generation was Rene and his sisters, in the late 50s and early 60s. Then from 1983 through 2001, his own children attended HD. And from 2008 to the present, a third generation of his grandchildren have been HDCH students.

During Rene’s time as an HDCH student, the school moved three times: first to the Mount Hamilton CRC basement, then the First Hamilton CRC Annex, and finally into the new facility at Athens Street -- which Rene and fellow students helped to build. “We had spent many of our PE hours working at the school, laying floor tiles, building lockers, hauling cement, etc. etc. We were proud and thankful for our new

home,” he recalls. During that time, HDCH graduated its first class. With the addition of Grade 12, says Rene, “We were now a high school.”

Rene has clear memories of his teachers, and listed them by name: Lowell Witvoet, Jessie Persenaire, Fred Hoffman, Jan Vandervelde (the first Principal), and later Tony TenKate -- Tony who “lived in St. Catherines so that he could drive the school bus with the first HDCH students from that area” -- Bert Witvoet, Betty Spoelstra, M. Van Iperen, and Bernice Schroetenboer. Rev. Wiebe van Dijk was the Principal by then.

Of course, there are some memories of shenanigans -- without which no high school education would be complete!

That’s well over 30 years of Dams!

2nd

married

CONNIE BIJL ‘87

3rd SPENCER BYL ‘14 NADINE DAM ‘12

1

st

RENE DAM ‘62

DANIELLE DAM ‘14

BILL DAM ‘88

ALEXA DAM ‘17 JUDY WILLIAMS ‘90 RENE DAM ‘92

STEPHANIE RINTJEMA-DAM '93

JENNIFER KOENS ‘94

NEIL KOENS ‘94

MICHELLE DAM ‘95 DAVID DAM ‘97

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KRISTA VANDEKUYT ‘99

ROB VANDEKUYT ‘99

STEPHANIE DAM ‘01

LUKE SPIEGELAAR '01

ERZA KOENS ‘20

During these years, Rene recalls outwitting the Mount Hamilton CRC caretaker, Mr. Vanderhout, so that he and his friends could smoke out of sight. Once, when at First CRC, they snuck out to play pool. But the impact of Rene’s experience at HDCH went much further than a couple of pranks.

One of Rene’s daughters, Jennifer Koens, remembers: “I was always entertained by my dad’s HDCH stories!” His daughter Connie Bijl recalls looking through his HDCH yearbooks.

Connie says, “We knew from a young age that we would be attending HDCH.” And Krista Vandekuyt, “one of the youngest” of the family, says that from a very young age, “I knew that I would follow in my siblings’ footsteps.”

Connie, the eldest, started at HDCH in 1983.

She has great memories of finding “good friends with similar interests in academics, art, and faith life.” Choir, school plays, and the school paper were significant in her high school experience.

“There was an infamous issue of the Newspaper, run off on Gestetner in those days, that needed to be reprinted,” Connie recalls.

“It seems that our editor had written a very thoughtful review on the movie Platoon -- which was rated Restricted! We wrote controversial opinion columns which ensured that the paper was read each month: pros and cons of male earrings, school dances, etc.”

When it comes to the learning in the classroom, Connie says this: “”For me, the most important lessons came from the Arts... I still use my French language, Art history, English writing, and Art techniques today. In Grade 12 English, we spent time on worldviews, and I finally understood what four years of catechism was trying to teach me: The Reformed Worldview is a beautiful way of looking at our purpose on Earth with its emphasis on Christians reclaiming every aspect of it.”

During Connie’s time at HDCH, the school began plans to move from Athens Street to the current campus on Glancaster Road. She remembers that process well, having attended Membership meetings to hear how the plans were unfolding, and she documented the process as editor of the 1987 yearbook.

Connie says that she has been part of committees for ongoing expansion of the current building, and as such feels “that this campus is just as much a part of the HDCH I know as the Athens Street location was.”

Her younger sister Jennifer attended HDCH from 1990 to 1994. Jennifer found that HDCH impacted her life both personally and professionally. “I met my husband at HDCH and a lot of my current friendships stem from our meeting at HDCH. In my career, my education has helped me in the understanding of concepts needed to prepare me for postsecondary studies and in my current field.”

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Jennifer affirms that the major impact of HDCH in her life “is that through my biblicalbased learning, I now constantly view everything I do from a Christian perspective... We are all truly fearfully and wonderfully made

by God and all mankind deserves to be cared for with dignity and respect. We are given each day as a gift and by serving others joyfully with humility, patience and kindness wherever we are, we are then serving, praising and bringing honour to His name which is our sole purpose here.”

My husband and I have been able to face significant losses and difficult times rooted in the assurance of knowing who we are as Christians and what we believe.”

“I think the biggest impact HDCH had on shaping my life was the way that our teachers modeled their faith,” shares another younger sister, Krista. “Many teachers shared their beliefs in such authentic ways and that contributed to my own faith journey.”

Connie says that she and her husband John tried to keep this in mind during Spencer’s high school years: they worked to let Spencer have [her] own experiences in the academics and extra-curriculars.” And this is the same advice Connie would give to anyone who is thinking about HDCH for their children.

Like Jennifer, Krista met her husband Rob at HDCH: “We met on our Grade nine retreat and fell in love during Grade 11 Drama class.”

Even today, many of their closest friends are also HDCH alumni.

In terms of the learning, Krista believes that HD “provided such a superior secondary education.” She felt prepared to excel in her disciplines in university. Even so, she believes “The greatest impact my HDCH experience provided was to build a strong faith foundation that will serve me and my family for life. With our classes taught with a Christian worldview and with the space to grapple with and discuss our faith, HDCH helped me nurture my own faith...

fun fact:

Connie tells us they are a 25-25 family.

Connie graduated 25 years after Rene, and her niece Nadine Dam graduated 25 years after her! Who knows, maybe in 2037 we’ll be checking in with a 4th generation of HDCH grads from this clan?

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Connie experienced life as an HDCH parent when her daughter, Spencer Byl (2014), attended HDCH as well. Connie found that “HDCH today is very different from the school that I attended… It’s amazing to see the new events and options that the students have today!”

Like Jennifer and her husband Neil, for example, who are at the start of their HDCH adventure as parents; their son began Grade 9 this past September. One of the things they love about this school, from their time as students and still now, is this: “I am happy to see over the years how much HDCH has grown in every aspect, but also happy to see that the faculty’s desire for the well-being of each student has never changed and that the main goal has remained a constant.”

Nadine, a member of the Dam family’s third generation, is one of several family members who work together in their seed business.

She says this about her time at HD, as compared to preceding generations: “I attended the new campus on Glancaster Road. Some of the teachers were the same as my Dad had, though! We had many more computers than they had when he attended in the 1980’s. HDCH helped to shape my way of thinking; I learned to become a critical thinker. Although I wasn’t a great Biology student, I did develop a deep respect for the intricacies of creation, which helps me a lot in my work today with seeds and plants.”

Even though some in the second generation initially may have begrudged the fact that they didn’t get to choose their high school themselves, in retrospect, they are grateful for the choice their parents made.

That second generation has gone on to a wide range of careers, and they all seem to feel that HDCH prepared them well. And while each individual’s experience is different - the siblings have varying degrees of connection to HDCH now, depending on geography and personal inclination - it seems that, for many of them, a legacy of stories, learning, relationships, and Christian worldview keeps bringing them back in successive generations.

WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU! There are other three-generation families that are part of this school community, like the Vanderkruks (see Rob’s story on p. 3).

If you have a multi-generational story to share, we’d love to hear from you!

Or, send us a photo of your multi-generational grads to add to our wall for the 60th anniversary celebration May 27.

New World Record @HDCH

PHOTO : GARY YOKOYAMA

By Pauline VanderVelde, Social Sciences and Humanities Educator Just prior to Christmas, World Vision approached Pauline VanderVelde, Social Sciences and Humanities Educator, with a unique challenge to successfully create the world’s longest line of candy canes.

They hoped that this campaign would help raise awareness of food insecurity. Mrs. VanderVelde encouraged her class to participate in this endeavor, and the journey to a Guinness World Record began.

Did you know that Guinness World Records receives over 50,000 applications annually from around the world and that less than 1,000 of these challenges are actually successful? Knowing these statistics kept the Food & Nutrition class focused throughout the entire challenge.

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The requirements were specific in that the actual candy canes had to be touching, and no candy cane could be broken or the plastic seal damaged. The pattern was critical in the planning to ensure that we could create a chain that was over one kilometer long.

The Guinness World Record judge flew in from New York City the night before. When she arrived on site, she manually counted every candy cane and explained that earning the actual record depended entirely on our group’s results. Prior to the final judging, several students in the class triple-checked every section of the massive chain to ensure it passed the Guinness World Record test.

Two city surveyors arrived on the scene with their equipment and spent over an hour getting an exact measurement. The final measurements by the surveyors revealed a candy cane line that measured 1,047 meters

or 1.04 km, and 7,335 candy canes long. The Guinness World Record was complete!

At the end of the day, the group repackaged the candy canes to be delivered to some very deserving local charities so that children, youth, and adults could enjoy them for Christmas. Our Student Council was also blessed with enough candy canes to support the Christmas events at our school.

A big thank you to Karma Candy, Inc. for supplying all of the candy canes for this Guinness World Record.

The entire experience was something new for our students, our school, and our entire community, as a feat like this had never been attempted in our school’s 60-year history.

So how long is the world’s longest candy cane chain? It is 1,047 metres or 7,335 candy canes long!

Come and See The best way to see if Hamilton District Christian High is right for you is to come and experience our community for yourself.

Drop by the school to take a tour, attend a class, meet teachers and staff and enjoy a meal from our cafeteria. We look forward to meeting you!

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92 Glancaster Road, Ancaster, ON 905.648.6655 info@hdch.org

To learn more, or to submit a registration application, visit www.hdch.org

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