October 2024 Newsletter

Fall 2024

Building Hope: A New Year of Growth and Resilience

tphgr.org

Letter from Mr. Booy Dear Friends and Supporters of The Potter’s House, As we begin our 44th year, I am thrilled to share that we are welcoming 640+ students from all cultural and economic backgrounds into our school community. In the heart of Roosevelt Park, we are committed to providing a Christ-centered, excellent education that equips our students for both academic success and spiritual growth.

This year, we faced an unexpected challenge when a fire, caused by a subcontractor’s improper disposal of flammable materials, threatened our school. However, by God’s grace and the support of our community, we acted swiftly to restore and rebuild. His protection was evident, and we are grateful for the partnerships that helped us move forward. By the end of October we expect to reopen our beautifully restored worship space.

What’s Inside Letter from Mr. Booy.............Page 2 New Learning Spaces...........Page 3 New Staff................................Page 4 Antonio Finds New Beginnings at TPH.................Page 6 Florance’s Journey................Page 8

Despite this setback, our school year began on schedule, and we are excited to have a newly renovated first-grade classroom, and our new Wonder Academy Outdoor Classroom. As a school built on miracles, we eagerly await the work God will do in the hearts and minds of our students this year.

Peter’s Journey at TPH..........Page 10

Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” This truth guides us as we move forward together.

Call for Legacy Supporters and Monthly Donors.............Page 13

Thank you for being a vital part of our mission. Your support and prayers enable us to continue raising resilient followers of Jesus Christ.

Blessings,

Jay and Kathleen Morren’s Story........................Page 12

Thank You Banquet Sponsors.................Page 14 TPH’s Theater Company’s 2024/2025 Season...............Page 14 Gifts In Memory.....................Page 15 Remembering Sharon Ritter..........................Page 15

John Booy Superintendent The Potter’s House

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Save the Date: New Friends Banquet 2025..........Page 16

Transformative Learning Spaces: New Classroom and Outdoor Learning Environment for Students Blessing of New Classrooms With the support of our generous sponsors, the Potter’s House has opened a brand-new classroom for our first-grade students, creating a nurturing and stimulating environment for our young learners. This newly refurbished classroom, with stateof-the-art furnishings and learning tools, ensure that each child has the best possible start to their education journey.

Brenda Riegler, a long-time first-grade teacher at Potter’s House, expresses her joy at the transformation: “The new classroom is absolutely beautiful, with brand-new furniture and resources that allow us to achieve so much more. I can now give more individual attention to my students and help them grow academically and spiritually in a welcoming, loving environment.”

This classroom serves as a daily reminder of the value of investing in the lives of children. The new space not only supports learning but also reflects the care and excellence we strive for at The Potter’s House.

Students in the Wonder Academy’s outdoor classroom

The Wonder Academy students will maintain and care for the space throughout the school year while also sharing it with other classrooms.

This space is a place where students can interact with nature, learn about the world around them, and deepen their relationship with God. Teachers and students alike are excited about what the outdoor classroom will bring to their learning experiences. Megan, one of the Wonder Academy students, shares, “I’m excited about gardening and being outside during all the seasons.”

Gabby adds, “I believe this space will help us connect with each other, and I’m going to enjoy helping create the spaces and work on outdoor projects.”

The outdoor classroom is a transformative addition to The Potter’s House, providing students with opportunities to learn through gardening, nature study, and reflection. This space will be utilized year-round, allowing students to explore God’s creation and care for it, while also strengthening their academic knowledge.

Introducing the Outdoor Classroom for Wonder Academy Thanks to our community’s continued generosity, the Wonder Academy— our project-based learning program for 6th and 7th grade students—now benefits from an outdoor classroom, designed to immerse students in hands-on, experiential learning.

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Welcome, New Staff!

We warmly welcome our new teachers and staff, who bring fresh energy, love, and dedication to our Christ-centered family at TPH. We look forward to the incredible impact they will have on our students and each other.

MALLORY ALMONTE

JESSICA BAKER

JULIE BAYLOR K-5 ESS Teacher

Lead Preschool Teacher

TIM BENNETT

KARA COLE

STEPHANIE DECOU

CELENA DELGADO

JACKIE FRENS

Guidance Counselor

Donor Officer

MS & HS Choir Director

HS Educational Interventionist

DANIELLE DILLMAN

HALEY FEDEWA

DELANEY FOX

Math Teacher

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Grades 4/5 Teacher

Counseling

HS PE Teacher

KALEY BECKETT

Preschool 3s Paraprofessional

Robotics Teacher

DANIEL HUAN

KELSEY GICHUKI

MIKE GREEN

MALENA GUSTAFSON K-8 Art Teacher

Grades 4/5 Teacher

LARRY ISAACSON

STEPHANIE KROLL

ANNA KURTZ

AMY LIPSKI

MATT PALMIERI

ROSALIND PERKINS

11th Grade English Teacher

Bus Driver

Full-time Sub

Young 5 Teacher

HS Band Teacher

Preschool Paraprofessional

RACHELLE ROSARIO

MEGHAN TAYLOR

Social Worker

Grade 1 Teacher

K-8 Music Teacher

Bus Driver

RACHAEL PLANTINGA AMANDA RODRIGUEZ Grades 2-7 Strings Teacher

Secretary / Receptionist

JEN VANDORP

JENNIFER WILBER

Grades 4/5 Co-Teacher

Food Service

Not pictured: John Fisher, Bus Driver Fall 2024

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From Hardship to Hope: Antonio Finds New Beginnings at The Potter’s House

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ntonio, a junior at The Potter’s House, is a young man whose journey is marked by faith, resilience, and transformation. His path to the West Michigan school began with hardship and trauma in Honduras.

But through God’s protection and provision, Antonio found a new home. He also found a community at The Potter’s House that has nurtured him both academically and spiritually.

A New School, A New Start Antonio transferred to The Potter’s House during his sophomore year, having previously attended another high school. “I had a friend, Jose R., who told me about The Potter’s House,” Antonio shares. “He said it was a great place to learn, especially for someone like me who was still learning English. He said they had soccer and other sports too.” The switch proved to be a blessing. While Antonio appreciated his previous school, he recognized the struggles that came with it, such as frequent fights and a lack of structure.

“There’s more discipline here,” he says, reflecting on the atmosphere at The Potter’s House. “The students are kinder, and I feel safe. The dress code and the environment make a big difference.”

Antonio’s English proficiency has grown significantly since joining the school. “I’ve learned a lot, thanks to my ESL teachers,” he says. His commitment to improving his English is clear. “I try my best every day because I know how important it is for my future.”

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Challenges Turned to Growth

Thriving in a ChristCentered Community

Born and raised in a small village in Honduras, Antonio faced immense difficulties from an early age. His parents left when he was just a year old, and his grandparents became his caretakers. When he was 11, his grandfather, the breadwinner, passed away. “I had no choice then,” he says.

“I had to quit school and work on the farms so I could survive.”

Antonio’s faith continues to flourish in the Christ-centered environment of The Potter’s House. He participates in Bible classes with Mr. Trice, where he’s memorizing verses like Philippians 4:13, a verse that speaks directly to his journey: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” In addition to spiritual growth, Antonio is also active in school activities, including playing soccer.

From working on farms, to surviving life on the street with his cousin Deyvi, to now thriving living in the States, Antonio reflects on this challenging time and says,

“I

believed in God, and I trusted that He would protect me.

This faith, sparked during his childhood when his grandmother took him to church, deepened when he arrived in Grand Rapids and began attending The Potter’s House. “When I came here, I started learning more about God,” he reflects. “I had always believed, but now I understand so much more. I know that God is the Creator of everything, all of humanity, and He has a plan for me.”

“I

love it here. The school has given me opportunities I wouldn’t have had anywhere else,” he says with gratitude. “Already I was able to go to New York City, and also to Isle Royale where we could enjoy creation.

Looking ahead, Antonio dreams of studying business and building a career in real estate, a goal he’s determined to achieve through hard work and the education he’s receiving at The Potter’s House. “I want to have my own business one day,” he shares, envisioning a future filled with opportunity.

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Healing Hands and a Heart for Worship: Florance’s Journey

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lorance, a junior at The Potter’s House (TPH), carries an incredible story of faith, resilience, and gratitude. At just 12 years old, Florance and her large family left Uganda, seeking a life of safety and opportunity in the United States. While her family managed to avoid some of the worst poverty in Uganda, they still experienced the instability and crime that marked her childhood. The turning point came when thieves broke into their home and stole her father’s money, leaving them shaken. It was at that moment that her parents made the difficult but necessary decision to bring their children to a safer place.

The eighth of nine children, Florance is immensely grateful for the opportunity to grow up and attend school in Grand Rapids. Life in Uganda, especially for children, was fraught with uncertainty. “We were stable compared to our neighbors,” Florance recalls, “but there were always challenges, and the government wasn’t really active in helping.” She also notes that Uganda does not prioritize education, especially for girls. Moving to Michigan, therefore, felt like a lifeline, offering her family stability and a chance to focus on education.

impact a Christ-centered education had on Jeremiah, which led him to enroll all of his children at TPH when they reached high school. Then this year, Florance’s younger sister joined the TPH Middle School, a decision that has delighted the whole family.

Since starting at TPH, Florance has thrived, especially in her Chemistry class with Mr. Verbeek. She lights up when talking about her love for the subject, saying, “Chemistry just makes sense to me. It’s fun, and I love how clear it is compared to biology.”

Her passion for science is linked to her future goals of becoming a nurse. “I feel called to help people who are not only physically broken but also spiritually. I want to be there for people when they need healing,” Florance explains.

Florance’s heart for worship is one of the defining features of her spiritual journey. While she grew up in a Christian home and attended church regularly in Uganda, it was at The Potter’s House that she began to experience a personal relationship with Jesus. She vividly remembers the moment in seventh grade when she felt an overwhelming urge to

When Florance first arrived in the U.S., she attended a local middle school.

Learning English presented an initial barrier, but with the support of great teachers, she quickly adapted.

Over time, her confidence grew—an attribute she now shares joyfully at The Potter’s House.

The Potter’s House was introduced to Florance’s family by a woman named Joy, whom Florance calls “Grandma.”

She suggested TPH to Florance’s father and even helped pay for her older brother, Jeremiah, to attend.

Florance’s father saw firsthand the Fall 2024

Florance enjoying Partner Day with her partner Barb

read the Bible and draw closer to God. “I didn’t know how to start reading the Bible, but I kept hearing that it would give me peace,” she recalls. This inner prompting has blossomed into a deep faith, with Florance engaging in prayer, fasting, and Bible study, not just at home, but also at school.

She is particularly grateful for the spiritual atmosphere at TPH, where daily prayer and worship are woven into the fabric of school life. The school’s Chapel services, alternating between messages and praise, have become essential to her week.

“I

feel like I’m home here because the teachers are like family. They care for us like we’re their own, Florance says.

Florance’s faith isn’t just something she practices in her personal life—it is the foundation of her dreams for the future. As she prepares for her next steps, Florance envisions using her nursing career as a ministry, bringing both physical and spiritual healing to those in need. “Hospitals are full of broken people, and I want to help them find healing in every way,” she says with a smile.

Through the support of her family, meaningful friends like Joy, and the nurturing environment at TPH, Florance has blossomed into a confident young woman with a heart set on serving others. As she walks forward in her faith, the ripple effects of her journey will touch the lives of generations to come.

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Building Lifelong Bonds: Peter’s Journey at The Potter’s House

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ow thriving at The Potter’s House, Peter, a high school junior,didn’t always embrace the idea of attending the school. His parents transferred him in the sixth grade, leaving behind his old friends from his previous school.

“At the time, I had to give a little pushback. I wasn’t excited to leave my friends, but now I’m happy,” Peter reflects, smiling. What started as an uncertain transition has evolved into a meaningful journey marked by growth, community, and spiritual connection.

One of the key reasons Peter’s parents chose TPH was the school’s culturally rich environment. Peter was born in Ethiopia. His birth mother died when he was a baby, after which he was adopted by a white American family. Peter’s parents were intentional about finding a place where he wouldn’t feel different.

“T

he diversity here was obvious,” Peter recalls. “It’s a lot more diverse than my old school, and it’s not just about race but also the closeness of the community.

This embracing atmosphere helped Peter feel less like an outsider and more like part of a multifaceted community.

Peter’s journey to acceptance wasn’t immediate—but for him, building friendships at TPH happened faster than expected. “The first day, I met two friends I still have today,” he shares.

This sense of belonging helped Peter appreciate the decision to attend the school, even if he didn’t initially see its value. He also attributes 10

much of his personal growth to his discipleship group, led by Mr. Stoner, a group he’s been part of since seventh grade. “We still meet regularly for breakfast or lunch, and it’s always a great time to talk about our lives,” Peter says. The group’s consistency and support have been pivotal in fostering Peter’s spiritual

growth and sense of connection.

Sports have also played a significant role in Peter’s life at TPH. A dedicated athlete, Peter plays soccer, basketball, and baseball, with baseball being his favorite. “Our coach even played in the MLB for a brief time,” Peter explains, his admiration clear.

Whether it’s on the field, the court, or the diamond, Peter finds joy in being part of the school’s sports teams, building camaraderie with his teammates and learning valuable life lessons.

Academically, Peter has explored a range of interests, including dual enrollment opportunities that have expanded his perspective. He took

a business and marketing class last year, which he found insightful, even if business isn’t his intended career path. “It’s just good to learn how things work,” he says, hinting at the broad exposure TPH offers its students. He is currently exploring Western Civilizations in another dual enrollment program offered by TPH. Spiritually, Peter’s connection to his faith has deepened during his time at TPH. While he grew up in a Christian household and attended Madison Square Church with his family, he appreciates the structured opportunities for spiritual growth at school. “We have Bible class and discipleship, which have helped me understand more about God,” Peter notes. The spiritual mentorship from staff and teachers has been crucial in his faith journey.

coming here that it’s a great school, but you get out of it what you put into it,” he says thoughtfully.

“T

he community is close, and the bonds you form are lasting. I’m really thankful for that.

As Peter continues his high school journey, he embodies the spirit of resilience, adaptability, and faith that TPH strives to nurture in all its students. From his custodial position, to academics and sports teams, to his discipleship group, Peter has found a place where he feels truly at home.

Beyond his academic, sports, and spiritual life, Peter has become a key part of TPH in a different capacity: he’s one of the team leaders for cleaning the school. This responsibility has further deepened his connection to the school community and provided him with valuable leadership experience. “I like that I have a job here and people count on me,” he shares. “I’ve also been able to save for my first car.”

Looking ahead, Peter is excited about the future, but for now, he’s content with where he is. He’s deeply grateful for the support from his teachers and friends and feels rooted in the community TPH has provided. “I would tell someone thinking of

Peter and his teammates on TPH soccer team Fall 2024

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A Journey of Generosity: Jay and Kathleen Morren’s Story

J

ay and Kathleen (Toots) Morren’s story exemplifies how stepping beyond one’s comfort zone can ignite a ripple of generosity that transcends generations. Raised in a homogenous Dutch Reformed community, they grew up with limited exposure to people outside their cultural and economic background. “We were not very trusting of people who were different from us,” Jay recalls.

“Whether that was their race, their denomination, or where they came from.”

However, their world expanded exponentially when they felt called to come alongside children and families living vastly different lives from their own.

Jay’s commitment to education stems from his own challenging experiences.

Working “day and night” to pay for his schooling at South Christian High School and the University of Michigan,

he gained a deep appreciation for the power of education. After earning degrees in business and education, Jay returned to his alma mater as a teacher. Kathleen shares this passion, dedicating herself to helping children improve their reading skills.

Their connection to The Potter’s House began with a simple invitation to a banquet.

“W

e thought, the Lord has blessed us far above what we deserve, and we have so many kids right next door to us that haven’t been blessed like that. Maybe we could bless them, Jay reflects.

This introduction quickly grew into a life-changing commitment.

Through the school’s Partner Program, the Morrens were paired with Melanie and Zoe and began cultivating a relationship. The Morrens experienced firsthand the resilience of students and their families.

Reflecting on their close relationship, Kathleen says about the family: “After all their struggles, I have been really impressed with their perseverance and industriousness. It’s really something.”

Superintendent John Booy notes, “Jay and Kathleen have made the mission of The Potter’s House their own.

Their hearts for our students and their commitment to see this next generation succeed is truly inspiring.”

The Morrens’ dedication to The Potter’s House is multifaceted. Jay actively mentors high school students, sharing his business acumen and life experiences, while Kathleen volunteers her time to support reading programs. Their hands-on approach extends to Jay’s crucial role in establishing Camp Scottie, a day camp that enhances students’ academic experiences through outdoor learning. This personal involvement complements their financial commitment, which includes a legacy gift through the John Booy Heritage Circle, ensuring their impact will continue for generations to come.

From both volunteers to true ambassadors, the Morrens embraced the school’s mission of providing a Christ-centered, academically

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excellent education to students of all backgrounds. Their journey illustrates the profound impact of opening one’s heart to new experiences and people. As they engaged with The Potter’s House community, they realized how much harder it is to judge or exclude people once you’ve experienced their lives firsthand.

The Morrens’ story is a testament to the transformative power of proximity and generosity. Through their commitment and willingness to embrace diversity, Jay and Kathleen have become living examples of The Potter’s House’s mission in action.

Their legacy will continue to shape the school for years to come, creating ripple effects in countless lives. It’s a beautiful example of how love, compassion, and excellent, Christcentered education can transform not only students, but also those who support them.

The Morrens enjoying Partner Day with their student partner, Zoe

Become a Legacy Supporter Legacy giving is a powerful way to ensure that your values live on and continue making an impact for future generations. By including The Potter’s House in your Will, Trust, or estate plan, you join a growing community of 184 supporters who have already made this meaningful commitment!

Together, these generous pledges represent an estimated $25 million in future funding for the school, helping to secure a Christ-centered, quality education for children of all cultural and economic backgrounds.

Interested in becoming part of this legacy of support? Contact Tim Swiney at tswiney@tphgr.org or 616-818-3745 for more information.

Become a Monthly Donor With convenient automatic gifts set up through your bank account or credit/debit card, you make an ongoing impact that sustains our Christ-centered education year-round. Monthly gifts also ensure that we can count on a consistent cash flow to meet our students’ needs as we build resilient followers of Jesus Christ.

Interested in setting up monthly giving? Contact the Advancement Office at 616-241-5220 or by visiting www.tphgr.org.

Your partnership makes all the difference!

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Thank you to our 2024 New Friends Banquet Sponsors!

Interested in sponsoring for 2025? Contact the Advancement Office at 616-241-5220 or events@tphgr.org.

Presenting

Gold

Bronze

David and Joanna Huizenga

Fred and Kathy Cook Family

Rich and Dawn Antonini Chuck and Christine Boelkins Harvest Health Integrated Packaging Machinery Myles and Glennys Kuperus Brad and Vonnie Lamb Craig and Wendy Spoelhof Stifel Inc.

My Auto Import Center

Silver

Arie Nol Auto Center Armbrecht and Wierenga Orthodontics Jeff and Gretchen Asfour Nick and Carissa Bakker John Booy The Bouma Corporation Jim and Ellen Bruinsma Buist Electric Calvin University Cornerstone University Corporate Cleaning Services Credo House Publishers Culver CPA Group Custer Inc. Paul and Cindy DeBoer Fastool Inc. Generous Anonymous Donor Grand Canyon University Grand River Bank

Lumbermen’s

Jay and Kathleen Morren

Diamond Jim and Nancy Engen Lois Nagel

John and Lorene Postma Toyota Matching Fund Ross and Suzann VanKlompenberg Wyser Innovative Products LLC

Bouma Bros. Sales and Service Inc. Jeff and Linda Cobb Integrity Business Solutions Olsson Investment Group OVD Insurance Pageworks West Michigan Janitorial Mark and Jenna Wierenga

Tom and Sally Haveman Ken and Sandy Hofman Tom and Eddi Hofstra Michael and Alissa Hollander Matt and Emily Hylant John & Sons Auto Sales KAIROS Collaborative Tom and Judy Lammers Langerek Roof Systems LTrice Consulting Meijer Dan and Patricia Ophoff Jim and Katie Peterson Pleune Service Company James H. Quist CPA Rockford Construction S.A. Morman Co. Spring Arbor University Tim and Christy Swiney Thornapple Woodlands LLC Bob and Bonnie Velting Wyoming Stuyvesant Floral

Mark Your Calendars: The Potter’s House Theater Company Presents their 2024/2025 Season!

Join us for an unforgettable 2024/2025 theater production season at The Potter’s House, where students’ passion, talent, and creativity come together for a series of must-see performances.

High School Productions, Directed by Brad Cain: •

Our Town - November 2024

•

Curious Savage - February 2025

•

You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown - April 2025

TPH High School’s Spring Production of “Objects in Mirror May Be Closer Than They Appear”

Middle School Productions, Directed by Janae Wayburn-Dean: •

Spring Play - March 2025

Support our young actors, technicians, and directors as they bring these incredible stories to life on stage. Join us for a season of exceptional high school theater! Keep an eye out for for more details to come.

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TPH Middle School’s Spring Production of “Cinderella”

In Loving Memory of: Leona Boerman Anonymous gifts Richard and Mary Herrema

Bette Bosma Jack and Marcia Brace Jonathan and Grace Bradford Betty Kingma IDK Real Estate Investments LLC Gretta Vaandrager John Vander Ploeg William and Yvonne VanEe

Wayne Dornbush George and Mary Brander Camp Roger Gordon and Mina Dornbush Paul Huizenga Dorothy Meyer Harold Ploeg William and Krista Seabolt John and Mary Van Der Puy Mark and Sue VanZanten

Donna Fisher

David Lotterman Cont.

Eric Sikkema Mark and Faith VanVliet Deborah Witteveen Conroy and Joan Zuiderveen

Elberta Mulder Sandra Davis Gordon DeBoer Gerrit and Ruthe Mulder Barb Pepper

Sharon Ritter Tom and Lisa Bulten Elmer and Hazel Cox Ron and Barbara Graham David and Evie Schaafsma Dennis and Karen Swanson Tim and Christy Swiney Paul and Nancy Vanderweide

Arv Tap

Steven and Doreen Beezhold

Fellowship CRC

Mary Lewis Gustafson

Beverly Vanderwood

Norma Logan

David Lotterman James and Carol Achterhof Marcia Boerman Shelley Buma Calvin and Doreen Compagner Deborah Compagner Barbara & Larry Corley Carl and Gloria DeYoung Edward and Tammi Frick Jerry Groendyke Brian and Amy Hackert John and Sharon Heyboer Betty Lotterman Linda Pretet

Anonymous gifts Joseph and Tracy Fausnight Jules and Peggy Glanzer Jon Helder John and Patricia Huizinga Jim and Kathie Kregel Craig Pippel S.L. and T.D. Sayres Mary Seentsra The Timothy Group Tim and Christy Swiney

Former Potter’s House Teacher Sharon Ritter Passes Away Mrs. Sharon Ritter, a long-time educator at The Potter’s House, passed away recently. Mrs. Ritter served as an elementary teacher at the school for over two decades before retiring three years ago.

During her tenure, Sharon was known for her passion and dedication to students. Her commitment to The Potter’s House community continued even after retirement, as she remained a frequent presence at school events, games, and open houses.

Sharon was also actively involved in tutoring students and participated in The Potter’s House’s Partner Program, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to student success.

Throughout her career and retirement, Sharon was recognized for her kindness, dedication, and unwavering support for students and the school community. Her contributions have left a lasting impact on The Potter’s House.

The Potter’s House community is thankful for the significant role Sharon played in shaping the lives of countless students over the years. Her legacy as an educator and volunteer will continue to inspire future generations at the school.

The Potter’s House is working with Sharon’s family to organize a Celebration of Life service.

Sylvia Vanpoolen Joyce Vandermolen

Ralph Vunderink Thermo King Michigan Inc.

Fall 2024

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810 Van Raalte Drive SW Grand Rapids MI 49509 tphgr.org

Save the Date for the 2025 New Friends Banquet April 24, 2025 JW Marriott Downtown Grand Rapids Prayerfully consider joining us as a Sponsor or Table Host.

Formal invitation to follow