Western Witness - Fall 2019

In this issue:

Phase II Second Century of Service Campaign

A Great Cloud of Witnesses

Radically Traditional

- Brian Verwolf

New Staff

Hot Lunch Program Needs

Society Meeting Highlights

Student Leadership

Pack Players to Present Little Women

Ag Department Updates

Activities Booster Club

Just My Thoughts

Bargain Alley Update

Prayer & Praise

Girls Soccer

Boys Soccer

All-State Camp

Softball

Baseball

Fast Facts from the Pack

NICSTO

Memorial Gifts

Save the Date: Nov. 22 - Fall Bonanza

Athletic Booster Club Report

Western Christian High School Foundation

100 Years of God’s Faithfulness

Phase II Second Century of Service Campaign

With the 100th Anniversary celebration of Western Christian High School completed the Board of Directors desires to move forward to eliminate the approximately $2,500,000 in debt the school has on the recently completed building project.

First, a little history about how we arrived at this amount of debt. Below are the improvements that have been made at Western Christian.

Currently, 5.1 million dollars has been received in cash and pledges to the Second Century of Service Campaign. Approximately $200,000 remains in outstanding pledges. $200,000 is in the bank waiting to be paid toward the debt. The amount owed to local financial institutions is $1,801,385 at 3.5% and the amount owed to the Western Christian Foundation is $900,000 at 3%. The amount in the Foundation is approximately $3,000,000. The Foundation board approved using up to 50% of the amount in the Foundation as a loan to the school for the project. The agreement with the local financial institutions was for three years. The term of the bank loan expires in December of 2019 from which the interest rate will be adjusted.

The Phase II Campaign starts with the Board of Directors They are being asked to show leadership first and consider a two or three-year commitment to the campaign. Hundreds of other contacts will be made going forward as well.

Matching Gift Challenge

To encourage new donors to the project Western Christian High School was approached with a challenge of raising $100,000 from people or businesses that have yet to make a gift or pledge to the project that would be matched from the challenge fund. Gifts of at least $500 or more per year would qualify. Multi-year commitments of at least $500 per year would also qualify. The Challenge runs through the end of the calendar year. An example of how you could help would be by making a gift of $500, $1,000, or $2,500 this year and commit to doing that for another year or two, whatever works best for your family. If you gave $1,000 this year and commit to another $1,000 next year Western Christian could apply $2,000 toward the challenge fund. If you have any questions please contact Wes Fopma at 712-439-1013 or email him at wes.fopma@westernchristianhs.com.

A Great Cloud of Witnesses

Western Christian High School’s 100th Year Anniversary. 100 years! At first thought, it seems truly amazing that Western has been able to serve God’s Kingdom for this length of time. In our minds, it is amazing and for much to be thankful, but for our incredible faithful Father should we put limits on what he is able to do?

As a Board of Directors, this anniversary was a natural time to reflect on the rich history of Western and be reminded of those that have served before us. Their sacrifices, trials, decisions, joys, and successes have all laid the foundation for where we are today. We stand on the shoulders of these giants and are so thankful for their insight, past work, and trust in our God. As one board member stated at the Anniversary celebration and after seeing all the class pictures of past graduating classes, that we are truly “surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses”!

This celebration is also a time to look ahead. As a Board, it is our hope and prayer that we have been faithful in our call and done our part in placing Western in a position to thrive in the next century of service. We are truly thankful and excited that Brian Verwolf accepted the Board’s invitation to become our Head Administrator and to guide Western in the future. A strong leadership team surrounds him in this effort, as well as a great faculty and staff that are true servant leaders to our students. All of whom are surrounded and supported by a committed constituency. Going forward, to guide us, we will be using a recently completed strategic planning process; with this information, we look to develop and implement new initiatives. Ultimately, we want to continue to strive to provide a high level of Christ-centered education and discipleship, while continuing to carry out Western’s mission of “providing God-centered secondary education for young men and women using the Bible and its principles as the foundation for the total curriculum.”

Yes, Western Christian has been blessed and we have much to be thankful for. So let us humbly celebrate this, while we move forward assuredly and excitedly to see where our faithful Father will lead us! As we do this, the Board passionately covets your prayers as we move into Western’s second century of…. Learning to Serve the King!

Kevin Gesink John Vander Haag Outgoing Board President Incoming Board President

Radically Traditional.

It sounds edgy, doesn’t it? Maybe even a little political. It is tempting for organizations like Western Christian High School to focus on growth, cost, customers, competitors, and secrets. These are good things that illuminate strategy, but this is not what grooms sustainability. Instead, organizations who flourish try to get better, not bigger, and they work to shape society, learn from everyone, and share their stories [God’s story] with the world. To celebrate 100 years of service, now this is remarkable! How did we accomplish this feat while so many organizations fail within their first century?

We are radically traditional. With a stable core – purpose, stewardship, and openness. With a mission and vision that goes before every decision. And at the heart of it all, there is a deep commitment to Western Christian’s mission evidenced by countless stories of its past.

Some of the best stories were told when we gathered for our 100th Anniversary Celebration in August. Most of the stories include boarding students in the early-mid 1900s and student bus drivers. In these stories, we dig deep to reflect on the significant level of commitment from a family who chooses Christ-centered education for their child(ren). Would you send your 14-year old away from home for the sake of this type of schooling?

Mission informs our story. As Donald Miller writes in A Million Miles in a Thousand Years, “[O]nce you live a good story, you get a taste for that kind of meaning in life, and you can’t go back to being normal; you can’t go back to meaningless scenes stitched together by the forgettable thread of wasted time.”

2019 is a momentous year for our learning community at Western Christian. We spend time celebrating the year of our centennial, and we are inspired to dream about what the next 100 years will be. As I embark on my journey as Head Administrator of Western Christian, tasked to envision the future, my hope is that we continue to do good work: Christ-centered education, dripping with learning and listening, and radically committed to the mission.

Brian Verwolf Head Administrator

New Staff

Western Christian’s three new members of the teaching staff bring different levels of experience. But they all are on fire to be working with the students and sharing their passion for not only education but their love for our Lord. Each of them was asked three basic questions to help introduce themselves.

• What excites you most about being at Western Christian?

• What is your ‘why’ for having gone into education?

• What is your Go-To Verse in times of anxiety? or when seeking the Lord’s direction, etc…

Mary Dirksen: Director of Educational Support

• I might have answered this question differently a few weeks ago. But today, I would now state that I am most excited about working with this outstanding faculty and staff. Everyone has been so welcoming, and it is evident that the students here are loved. The passion and positive energy for the mission of Western Christian are contagious.

• Christian education is an amazing partnership between the home and the Church and the school. The joy of working alongside parents and students for a greater understanding of our purpose and place in the Kingdom is the reason that I became a teacher.

• There are many verses...... When I even begin to feel anxious, I bring to mind the Truth of such verses as We can count it all Joy (James1:2)...We are not tossed about (Ephesians 4:14)...We lack nothing (James 1:4). The Lord is faithful to all of His promises and loving to all He has made. He upholds those who fall and lifts up those who are bowed down...The Lord is near to all who call upon Him” (Psalm 145).

Wendi Minderhoud: Spanish Department

• What excites me most about being at Western Christian is being in the classroom, meeting students, and having the opportunity to teach them something new and different. I want them to not only learn another language but to see the value of knowing another language and gaining knowledge of another people group for use in serving God in His kingdom here on earth. We as Christians especially should be looking for ways to reach out to our neighbors and show them the love of God and knowing another language and having some understanding of another culture increases our ability to reach others in the name of Christ.

• My “why” for going into education is because I enjoy learning, and I love sharing knowledge so that others also can know more. And then take that knowledge and use it in everyday life.

• It is really hard to pick one verse...but one that often comes to mind is Ephesians 2:8-10: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-and this not of yourselves, it is a gift of God-not by works so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” God put us here; God has good work for us to do; we need to see out the good work and do it for Him!

Thomas Soodsma - Math Department

• Last year, I substitute taught primarily in public schools where I was not allowed to share openly about our faith in Jesus. Since coming to Western, it has been a breath of fresh air to be able to share freely to the students truth from the Bible. Also, I have built great relationships with the students and staff, and I look forward to continuing those relationships.

• Originally, I went into education because it was a great way to mix intellectual work and working with people. This passion now includes a desire to positively influence youth in a pivotal time of their life. I deeply desire to see all students love God more than any other person or thing. The students take that love and spread the gospel to the rest of the world.

• When I am stressed or feeling anxious, my go-to verse is Philippians 4: 5b-7 “ The Lord is at hand; Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” I love that Paul reminds us the Lord hears, which causes us not to be anxious but pray instead. And when we pray, He promises his peace.

Hot Lunch Program Needs

Western Christian decided to no longer participate in the Federal Hot Lunch program two years ago. It has gone very well! One reason it has gone well is because generous supporters of Western Christian have donated cattle that they arrange with Hudson Meats to have processed into ground beef and donate to Western Christian. The Hot Lunch program has a real need for more donated ground beef at this time. If you are able to donate or have questions please contact Wes Fopma in the Western Christian office at 712-439-1013 or email wes.fopma@westernchristianhs.com. Thank you!

Society Meeting Highlights

The Western Christian High School board held its semi-annual society meeting on Monday, August 19. The society approved the following new board members: Jerry Buteyn-Sanborn CRC, Gary De Jager-RV Calvin CRC, Keith Kelderman-RV Trinity CRC, and John Vander Haag as Board President. Don De Boer-Sanborn URC and Doug De Boer-SC Covenant CRC re-upped for another term.

Outgoing board president, Kevin Gesink, opened with devotions reading from Psalm 37 about commitment, God’s faithfulness, and what we have to be thankful for.

The Education Committee reported on the staff changes within the building. Mary Dirksen is replacing Erin Hoekstra in the Resource Department, Wendi Minderhoud replaces Ashly Kwaokolo in Spanish, and Thomas Soodma replaces Courtney Rylaarsdam.

The Transportation Committee shared information about a new 2019 Bluebird bus that will be put into service this school year. Six buses are running daily routes with three buses and two minivans as spares and also used for after school activities. Roughly 119,000 miles were put on the bus fleet this past year. Rog DeGroot continues to do an excellent job keeping the fleet running and scheduling drivers for routes and extra activities.

The roof system again was a significant focus of the Building and Grounds committee. It was reported that the remodeling program of the bathrooms in our gym facility was completed before the graduation ceremony. The construction of the greenhouse has begun, and they are continually looking into the possibility of paving the North Parking Lot. A huge thank you to Dave Boender and his staff for the extra work preparing the building for the 100-year celebration.

It was exciting to hear that 272 students are registered for the 19-20 school year. The Finance Committee shared how Tuition continues to be the major source of revenue. The tuition cost per student is $8,475. The committee thanked the supporting churches for paying the Fair Share amount. The remaining debt for the 2nd Century Campaign was shared.

Brian Verwolf introduced himself and shared some of the ways he has been spending his time during the past six weeks. He has conducted a one on one meeting with each staff member. The purpose of these meetings was to build relationships. These conversations have been incredible, and he feels the staff is on fire for the future of Western.

Student Leadership

Freshman Orientation was held on Thursday, August 22nd. This evening is always a night full of excitement yet nerves. To help break the ice, Mr. Derek Keizer, Student Council leader, invited some Senior leaders to help guide the freshman through an activity called the Domino Effect. Freshmen were divided into five groups and challenged to utilize 1000 Dominos into a creative design. It was a challenge, but an excellent way for the new students to work together.

One of the Senior leaders that helped with this activity is this year’s Student Council President, Cassie Van Otterloo. She is eager to lead the Student Body! When asked about her thoughts on the school year, she shared this thought. “As I walked through the hallways of Western Christian on the first day of school, I could tell that this year is going to be a good one. The atmosphere that Mr. Verwolf and the other staff have created is extremely positive and encouraging, and I can see that they’ve worked hard to ensure that we, as students feel welcomed and motivated. As a student at Western, I am truly excited to see what this new school year brings.”

Pack Players to Present Little Women

The Pack Players will be presenting Little Women, a musical based on Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel. Auditions were held during the first full week of school. We have 25 strong cast members! Rehearsals began the first week of September. Performances will be held Thursday, November 7th at 7:00 PM in the Event Center and Saturday, November 9th at 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Ticket information will be available beginning in October.

Ag Department Updates

The Western Christian agricultural program did not stay idle for very long after the last day of school this summer. Within just a few days of the end of school, members and advisor alike were already moving, adventuring, and checking out many student’s supervised agricultural experience projects outside of school.

At the beginning of the summer, as an advisor, I had the opportunity to spend a couple of weeks that were specifically blocked out to visit student’s supervised agricultural experiences (SAE). Some examples of SAE projects include Janessa and Alexa Klyn’s giant garden and how they sell their produce at the Sheldon Farmers Market. Levi Schreurs and his family bottle feed newborn calves. Matthew and John DeVries’ project is to work on tractors, trucks, and motorcycles.

Tucked within these SAE visits, was also the annual officer retreat! The officer team traveled to Brookings, SD, and enjoyed time together planning, team building and brainstorming about how to make this school year the best yet. From an advisor’s standpoint, it was incredible to watch these seven work together, share their passion for this program, and rise to the officer position that they each fulfill. They came up with so many great ideas.

Ten FFA members traveled to Cedar Rapids on June 10 to participate in the Floriculture, Nursery Landscape, and Horse Judging Career Development Events (CDE). This was the first time our chapter has attended this competition. The Floriculture team received a bronze rating, Nursery Landscape received a silver rating and 10th place, and the Horse Judging team also earned a bronze rating.

July-August some of our members enjoyed extra time in the barn at several fairs in the area. Madison Hofman, Justin Bleeker, and Claire Bleeker all represented our chapter at the Sioux County and State Fair in July & August. All three enjoyed much success with their pigs. Additionally, around 100 riders came out for the 3rd annual tractor ride on a hot day in early July! Members enjoyed meeting and greeting all the riders that day, and while it was hot, it was another success!

Alons, Janessa Klyn, Alexa Klyn, Aubrey Kooima, Rachel Covey, Kendra Wynja, Shawna De Kam, Abby Schmidt, and Sydney VanderPol

And now, here we are! The beginning of year five! While it was a busy summer for our program, we wouldn’t want it any other way. We are so incredibly

these students are doing to grow this program here at Western Christian. To

- Kylie Miller, Ag Instructor

Activities Booster Club

and I

The Activities Booster Club is up and running again. Many parents have volunteered to help in the concession stand this year. Thanks so much for all of your help! We truly couldn’t do this without you. Serving in the concession stand at an athletic event is a win-win for Western. Concessions could not run without workers, and the Activity Booster Club benefits by being paid an hourly rate for all the help we give. These funds can be used by various groups in WCHS, although mainly used by the music department, the funds have also helped out Speech and Dance. Another tremendous benefit of working at the concession stand is the opportunity to meet other Western parents. Many people have commented on how enjoyable it was to meet and work with folks from the Western family. If you have not signed up to help this year, please let Mr. Van Ravenswaay know soon (Lyle.VanRavenswaay@WesternChristianHS.com). The basketball and wrestling seasons have not been scheduled yet, and there are many slots to fill.

blessed,

am continually amazed at what

God be the glory!

Ladies that attended the Floriculture, Nursery Landscape and Horse Judging competition (pictured from L to R): Emily Fedders, Darcy

The 2019-2020 Officer team: Emily Fedders, Claire Bleeker, Aubrey Kooima, Shawna DeKam, Abby Schmidt, Dolan Van De Stroet and Levi Schreurs

Just My Thoughts

A Changeless God Embracing Us In Every Season of Change

Eight months ago, as Western Faithpack members were urged to select a phrase or faith word for the new year, I chose the word change. I did so after quite a bit of thought and consideration. In the weeks leading up to that selection, I noticed the theme of change in many of my personal devotions and readings, and as my calendar for 2019 was shaping up, the word change seemed a natural selection.

In the months since then, my family celebrated two graduations, a wedding, a newly-married child moving 1783 miles from our family’s home, and the other recently-graduated child moving off to college for the first time. Change. (Thankfully, the dog, cat, and youngest of our three children are still around, or Mike and I would feel really lonely.) Our family certainly isn’t the only one experiencing changes in this year or at this point in our lives. In fact, some families are working through more changes than these, and some changes are not the typical stages of growth into adulthood but instead painful journeys through illness or death. No matter the situation we find ourselves in, change is continuously happening around us and to us.

While change is expected and normal, it still isn’t easy. Comfortable and predictable are so much easier to accept and, maybe if we’re honest, to pray for! And yet, change is inevitable, so we do our best to make the best of it in every season of change. But doing my best and making the best of it doesn’t really sound like living the way God intended. Just getting by and muddling through hardly seem like habits of God’s triumphant and joyful children. So, how do we live triumphantly and joyfully, even in seasons of great change, often times change that we are sure we didn’t ask for and pretty sure we wouldn’t choose, at least not yet, in our daily walk through life?

I have experienced that as I draw close to God in this season of change, I draw close to a peace that only God offers in every step of my journey. I step back and I realize that these changes aren’t about me at all, they are about Him. As God nudges and guides me (and all those I love so much) through changes and unfamiliar territory, He shows me again and again, that this is how I grow. This is how I realize that, through His strength and Spirit, I can be bolder and braver (and sometimes quieter and more at peace) than I could ever be without Him. It has been in this season of tremendous change that God has frequently and lovingly reminded me of His changeless promises, and some of the sweetest of His promises are repeated in Psalm 100, Western’s theme passage for the year: “Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.” (vs 3) “The Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” vs 5

So when people ask me how this year of change is going, I answer honestly. Most days, it’s going really well. I have a sense of peace that I did not expect to have, and I know exactly where it comes from; it’s not me, it’s all Him. I am learning, some days better and faster than others, to cling to my faithful Father in heaven; and wonderfully, He has shown me that I can hold hands with change because He has both of His arms lovingly wrapped around me in an unbreakable embrace of His enduring faithfulness--The Lord is good, His love endures forever, His faithfulness continues through all generations. Our God is good, all the time, even in times of change: actually, especially in times of change.

Just My Thoughts, KC

Bargain Alley Update

In July the Bargain Alley Thrift Store that Western Christian owns and operates in Hull celebrated its first anniversary. At the end of June, the books were closed on the first year of operation. Total sales for the year were $172,524. The departments that provided the largest revenue streams were Furniture at $35,534, Women’s Clothing with $24,883, and Home Decor with $18,741. Total operating expenses for the year were $80,638. After subtracting expenses from total sales the net income for the first year of operation was $91,855.

Of that net income of $91,855, $30,980 was used to pay off the balance of the construction expenses that were incurred. Total construction expenses were $140,910. Western Christian had received $109,930 in gifts and grants to help pay for construction expenses prior to opening the store. The building is now owned with no debt remaining.

Maureen Veldman was recently hired to join current staff members Kari Hoekstra, Betty Moss, and LuAnn De Wild. There are also 25-30 volunteers that assist in the operation of the store. More volunteers are needed! Please call the store at 712-439-6800 if you would like to help. You will be able to schedule your own hours.

Prayer and Praise

Please lift your praise to God for . . .

• 100 Years of Western Christian and the memory filled celebration that took place on Aug 9-11. A Century of Service is an incredible thing to Celebrate! To God be the Glory….. Great is Thy Faithfulness!

• Smooth transition into leadership for Brian Verwolf, Head Administrator.

• The safe arrival of Savannah Rose Hoekstra on May 31st. Savannah is the first grandchild for Band Director Lyle Van Ravensway and wife Mary, and the daughter of former Spanish / Resource teacher Erin Hoekstra and husband Taylor.

Please lift your prayers to God for . . .

• Upcoming marriages. Kylie Miller (Ag Instructor) and fiancee Michael Nettinga will be married in December. Lynae Dadisman and fiancee Dale Van Den Top will say their vows in June 2020.

• The class of 2023…...with each passing day may their nerves lesson as they walk the halls of WCHS.

• Safety for students, staff, and parents as each day many miles are traveled back and forth to Hull to attend not only classes but many activities. We pray for God’s protection over all these miles.

2019 Girls Soccer

The 2019 Girls Soccer season was a season to remember. The mission of the team was to “Do everything for the glory of God (Blessing Others with the Lord’s Desires) as a teammate, classmate, and citizen.” 2 Timothy 1:7 says, “God has not given us a spirit of timidity but of power and love and discipline.” This verse, along with the Great Commission were verses that drove our season. Our goal was to be the hands and feet of Jesus through the gifts and abilities He has given us to play soccer. Our girls lived these ideas out EVERY SINGLE DAY, both on and off the field.

Our senior leaders and captains did a phenomenal job of directing this team on the correct path and leaving a legacy for those to follow. Each individual, both on JV and Varsity, played an essential role on the team and brought joy into my life. This team clearly loved each other, and most importantly, they loved the Lord.

This season was a great success on the field. Varsity went 13-4 overall. They scored 58 goals and had 18 assists. Many memories were made including going to Culvers as a team, the tradition of playing “Mafia” at team dinners, and also beating Unity in penalties at home. Everyone appreciated the video that April Van Tol put together to commemorate the season.

Five individuals received post-season awards. Emma Bousema, Emma Gulker, and Courtney Kollis received All-Conference awards, and Tori Wynja and April Van Tol were honorable mentions. I want to thank each student-athlete for an incredible season and so many memories. Thank you to our seniors as well as Maggie Kats and Kira Ouwinga for their work as managers. Well done on a fantastic 2019 season!

- Coach Alex Durbin

2019 Boys Soccer

The 2019 soccer season was a memorable one. There has been a lot of growth with the boys’ soccer team over the past three seasons. This growth is contributed to all the hard work the guys have put into soccer over the offseason. Thanks to all those who have put extra time into our summer and winter league teams. We had a great group of kids on the team, which made it fun and memorable. Team members include Seniors – Justin Bleeker, Brady Faber, Carter Kooi, Alex Harthroon, Micah Uittenboorgard, Clay Van Tol, Jonathan Slice, Parker Vis, and Jeff DeKam. Juniors – Evan Wibben, Caleb Dokter, Kobi Baccam, Zach Van Essen, Cody Hoogendorn, Bryant Hoekstra, Matt Van Otterloo, Blake De Jager, Bryce Van Dyken, and Mason Stetson. Sophomore – Bailey Baccam. Freshman – Eli Van Essen, Mason Kooi, and Ty Van Essen.

The team finished with an impressive 14-4 overall record and have posted many great highlights on our twitter page (@wcboyssoccer1). We played a pretty tough schedule as many schools we played enroll more students, and more players specialize in soccer. As a team, we are pleased with our involvement in other sports and glad we can have so many athletes that can be diverse. Here are some season stat highlights. We scored a total of 77 goals, 44 assists, and only allowed 18 goals. Many different guys scored goals and ten different guys posted assists. Leading goal scorers were Kobi Baccam (25), Caleb Dokter (16), Carter Kooi (11), Bailey Baccam (9), and Zach Van Essen (7). Leading assists leaders were Kobi Baccam (17), Bailey Baccam (7), Carter Kooi (5), Zach Van Essen (4) and Caleb Dokter (4). Jeff Dekam had 123 saves and a save percentage of 87.9%. Our offensive stats are great, but we couldn’t have done it without our defense as well. There aren’t really defensive stats, but if there were, they would have been impressive with this group. The team was ranked as high as #5 in Class 1A on the season.

I would like to thank the team, and especially the seniors who have shown great leadership, dedication to the program, and have been great teammates to all involved. Thanks to the parents for the support of the boys’ soccer from organizing meals, sitting in the cold and wet Iowa spring, and rearranging schedules as games get shifted around due to rain. Also, thanks to Coach Chris Baccam for his first year of coaching. Above all, we give all the thanks and glory to God, as he gives us the opportunity to represent him and our school.

- Coach Sou Baccam

Season Awards

All-Conference Team Kobi Baccam, Caleb Dokter, and Clay Van Tol

Honorable Mention

All-State Academic

Growth shown in the past three seasons:

Record: 2017( 8-10)

2018( 8-5) 2019 (14-4)

Goals scored: 2017(41)

2018(34) 2019 (77)

Assists: 2017(19)

2018 (13) 2019 (44)

Goals Allowed: 2017(67)

2018 (18) 2019 (18)

Carter Kooi and Bailey Baccam

Jeff Dekam – 2nd Team

All State Kobi Baccam – Honorable Mention

Des Moines Register All Iowa Team Kobi Baccam – Honorable Mention

All-State Camp

In August, five students attended the Pre-All-State Music Camps at Morningside College or Briar Cliff University. The camps ran for three days; students spent time working in sectionals and in full choir rehearsing to begin the process of learning the required music for auditions. The audition process for AllState Chorus is both challenging and competitive, so the camps help students get a solid start in preparation for auditions in October.

Kelly Martin attended camp at Morningside; Sage Hoekstra, Breanna Ten Pas, Sylvia Koelewyn, and Emily Zuidema attended at Briar Cliff.

2019 Softball

We entered the 2019 season with a lot of question marks. After graduating five seniors from the 2018 squad, we had a lot of holes to fill in some very key positions on the diamond. After a slower start than we would have liked, we started to put the pieces together and were playing some pretty good softball late in the year. Our season ended with a loss to an excellent West Sioux team in the 2nd round of postseason play. We finished with a 10-14 record and were 6-6 in the Lakes Conference. We finished the conference season going 4-1 in our last five games to finish in a tie for 3rd place.

We had three seniors on the team Chandler Schemper, Kayla Zevenbergen and Lindsey Van Otterloo. Chandler and Kayla have been part of Wolfpack softball for five years. We thank them for all the time commitment they put into the program. Lindsey decided to give softball a try again as a senior after not playing since possibly 6th grade. A back injury shortened her season, but it was a lot of fun having her give softball one last try. She was a true example of someone who took a few years off but still gave it a shot. It’s never too late to give softball a try! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to any players or me. I would love to talk Wolfpack softball with anyone interested.

This group of players was a pure joy to coach. They were an incredible group of girls that came ready to work every day. The season started slow, but they never got down on themselves. It was their awesome attitude that helped turn the season around.

Girls challenged each other in the off-season to see who could get the most swings in over the winter. The team batting average increased from .285 in 2018 to .327 this season. This statistic proves that off-season work is beneficial to the growth of a program. I am excited to see how much work these girls put in this off-season.

- Coach De Jong

Season Highlights:

• 2nd in the conference batting average (conference games) .302

• 2nd in the conference in runs scored (conference games) 96 (8/game)

• 2nd in the conference in fielding (conference games) .938. 1st place was .949

• Team batting average for the season (all games) .327

• Average 7.5 runs/game (all games)

• Beat #12 rated Westwood 13-0 in 3 innings

Post-Season Awards

3rd Team All-State – Chandler Schemper

All Northwest District – Chandler Schemper

1st Team All-Conference – Chandler Schemper, Jadyn Faber

2nd Team All-Conference – Cassie Van Otterloo, Hannah Jansma, Kayla Zevenbergen

Honorable Mention – Tori Wynia, Emilee Heynen

Academic All-State – Chandler Schemper, Kayla Zevenbergen

2019 Baseball

What a season! I am proud of how this young team competed this year. Through the highs and lows, they represented Western Christian with dignity and used their God-given gifts on and off the field. Through hard work and the commitment by each player on the team, we were able to grow a tremendous amount.

With everyone on our roster returning from last year, it was great to see our young team continue to take steps in the right direction. After finishing last year with one win, we set out to turn some heads. This year, we were able to finish with nine wins against some tough competition. In districts, we were able to win a hard fought game against Sioux Center. Unfortunately, we fell short against number four-ranked West Lyon in our second district game to end our season.

As I reflect on the year, I love how the team has taken steps to change the culture of Western Christian baseball. Since not having a program two years ago, we will have close to forty participants next season. We have established a culture that is Christ centered, team oriented, and focuses on a positive mindset. I look forward to having everyone back next year to continue to grow as a team.

I would like to thank my assistant coach, Luke Drooger, for all of his hard work. I would also like to thank Justin Negen for his assistance on grounds and Travis Kooima for the hours he invests in our athletic programs. Lastly, I want to thank the parents, students, and the community for their support throughout the season. Whether we won or lost, it was always great to play in front of a supportive crowd.

There are a lot of exciting things to look forward to for Western Christian baseball in the years ahead. Go Wolfpack!

- Coach Trent Roose

All-Conference Recipients: Ty Van Essen, Zach Van Essen, Tyson Boer

Statement of Non-Discrimination

Western Christian High School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admission, policies, scholarships and loan programs, if any exist, and athletic or other school-administered programs.

Asbestos Information

In compliance with regulations of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); parents, teachers, and all employees are hereby notified that Western Christian High School has a management plan for asbestos available in the school office, should anyone desire to see it. Areas that contain asbestos are given required periodic surveillance by Mr. Dave Boender, the designated person.

Fast Facts from the Pack!

• The Senior class has been challenged to step up and be positive leaders. This challenge was presented to them at a picnic hosted at the home of Brian and Rachel Verwolf. The Seniors enjoyed a grilled supper and playing yard games. Thank you for opening up your yard and hosting, Verwolfs!

• Staff members spent time at Western before the start of school, not only working through traditional in-service items but also building relationships.

• Karinda deBoom, Art teacher, participated in an I Am Art Camp in Guatemala. She designed murals of a flower and a dragonfly, and the elementary-aged students painted it. The students were so engaged in their work that a third mural needed to be created. Karinda has many fond memories of her time in Guatemala over the five days.

• Mr. Ben Grav is a student-teacher working with Darren Van’t Hul in the music department during the first eight weeks of school. He comes to Western via Northwestern. Welcome, Mr. Grav!

• Faithpack groups are up and running!! Each teacher leads a group of 13-14 students during the chapel time at least one Thursday a month. Faithpacks will spend time reflecting on the theme of the Chapel they attended on Tuesday.

• During opening chapel, Mr. Verwolf presented the ‘cheer stick’ that is up for grabs throughout the year. He led each class in a cheer to judge the level of school spirit. Seniors earned the ‘cheer stick’ for now.

• All freshmen lockers are located together on the 2nd floor. To help build community and get to know each other, the freshmen created ‘locker tags’ in Computer Applications class with Mr. Derek Keizer. How cool is this to be able to put together names with faces and learn more about each student’s interests!! Great job, Mr. Keizer and freshmen students!

• 2019-2020 theme shirts are an excellent way for anyone (not just students) to share the message of our school. If you didn’t get a shirt ordered prior to school starting, don’t worry, a 2nd order will be placed sometime in November. Shirts are available in Maroon or White.

• This year’s Stewardship Day will be on Wednesday, Oct 23. Students will work with their Faithpacks at different projects in our surrounding communities. Moving Stewardship Day to a Wednesday has many benefits. One benefit is it allows immediate reflection the following Thursday when Faithpacks spend time together during a chapel period. If you have a project our students could help with, please contact the school office.

Karinda deBoom in Guatemala

Mr. Ben Grav - Student Teacher

2019-2020 Theme Shirts Freshmen Lockers

Staff Members at In-service Senior Supper at Verwolfs

What is NICSTO? NICSTO stands for Northwest Iowa Christian Schools Tuition Organization. NICSTO is designed by Iowa state law to promote the expansion of school choice for the benefit of Iowa’s students, our children and grandchildren. This year we need to raise approximately $150,000 to max out the amount we can distribute.

Who does NICSTO benefit? NICSTO distributes funds annually to students from low to moderate-income families attending schools within the organization (Christian schools in Northwest Iowa).

How do donors benefit from giving to NICSTO? A donor who pays Iowa state income taxes will receive a 65% tax credit toward their state income taxes due. In other words, if you owe $650 in state income taxes this year, a $1000 donation would eliminate your state income taxes! And you can direct the donation to the school of your choice!

Do I get a federal income tax deduction, too? Yes! Assuming you itemize deductions on your federal return (file Schedule A) and your state and local tax liability is below $10,000, your donation to NICSTO is considered the same as a donation to any other non-profit.

To receive a tax credit in 2019 please complete the form below and return it with your check by December 1. Available tax credits are limited by Iowa law (Checks received after NICSTO reaches its limit will be returned). Please make checks payable to NICSTO.

NICSTO – Northwest Iowa Christian School Tuition Organization – CONTRIBUTION MEMO

This completed memo must accompany your contribution. A formal Iowa Tax Credit Certificate will be sent to you in late Dec. or early Jan.

We are Most Grateful for Memorial Gifts Received in Honor and Memory of:

Dennis Walstra–Sioux Center. Dennis and his wife Donna have had three children that graduated from Western Christian High School. They are Angela (‘90), Mindy (‘93), and Daniel (‘00).

Peter Mesman–Hudsonville, Michigan. Peter graduated from Western Christian High School in 1948.

Chad Hoekstra–Sioux Center. Chad graduated from Western Christian High School in 2001.

Gerald Kroese–Hull. Gerald attended Western Christian for one year back in the early ’40s. Gerald and his wife Hendrene had two children and six grandchildren that attended Western Christian. Their children are Galen (‘75) and Shari (‘77). Gerald also served on the Western Christian Board of Directors.

Herm Brenneman–Sioux Center. Herm and his wife Adelene had four children that attended Western Christian High School. Dan (‘73), Donita (‘77), David (‘82), and Donnyce (‘86). Herm also served on the Western Christian Board of Directors.

Clarice (Dykstra) Vande Griend–Sioux Center. Clarice, who had been a cook at Western, was a 1952 graduate of Western Christian and she and her husband Jerace (‘50) had six children that attended Western Christian. They are Jeff (‘71), Kerwin (‘73), Terry (‘75), Mark (‘77), Steven (‘83), and Brian (‘85).

Save the Date: November 22 - Fall Bonanza

Mark your calendars for Western Christian’s Fall Bonanza which will be held on Friday, November 22. Online bidding will start on Monday, October 28.

Western Christian Atheltic Booster Club 2018-19 Report

The Western Christian High School Athletic Booster Club had a good year this past academic year. The booster club thanks all of those who supported the various fundraisers and purchased clothing.

The Western Christian High School Foundation

The Western Christian Foundation Board is an active investment group that manages the assets in the Western Christian Foundation. The Foundation currently has just over $3,000,000 in assets. The Foundation Board contributes approximately 3% of its balance each year to Western. This past year $49,500 was provided to Western and another $12,550 was provided in tuition assistance. The Foundation receives gifts as a result of mailings, requests through the Witness, memorials, and designated estate gifts. This past year we received over $36,000 in gifts and memorial donations to the Foundation. The Western Christian Foundation Board would like to thank all those that contributed last year.

We hope you’ll consider a gift to the Western Christian High School Foundation this year. Please complete the form and return it with your gift. Thank you for your past support of Western Christian and please keep us in your prayers as we strive to provide a high-quality Christian education to our covenant children.

In His Service,

The Western Christian Foundation Board

Don De Boer, Wes Fopma, Brad Van Heuvelen, Gary Westra, Connie Grevengoed

Western Foundation Membership

____ I (we) have included Western in our estate plan.

____ I (we) would like to talk with someone about estate planning.

If you have questions about Wills and Estate Planning please contact Wes Fopma at Western Christian High School at 712-439-1013 or email wes.fopma@westernchristianhs.com

100 Years of God’s Faithfulness

100 Years of God’s Faithfulness

One of the most significant weekends in the history of Western Christian High School occurred August 9, 10, and 11 as Western Christian celebrated 100 years of God’s faithfulness to Western Christian. The weekend started with a golf tournament on Friday afternoon at the Ridge Golf Course in Sioux Center where a record number of 132 participated. There were several participants from outside of northwest Iowa. On Friday evening five class reunions were held in the area, three at Western Christian alone. The classes of 1964, 1969, and 2009 celebrated at Western.

Saturday the momentum of the weekend turned to another gear as over 70 individuals participated in the 5K or 1-mile Fun Run. Over 160 alumni spent Saturday morning rehearsing as part of the Alumni Choir that was led by former choral director, Bill Bird. Mr. Bird was at Western Christian from 1969-1991. The alumni choir participated in the banquet on Saturday evening and the worship service on Sunday afternoon. The choir was a highlight for many during the weekend. Mrs. MaryLou Wielenga was the accompanist for the weekend.

Tours of the school occurred Saturday afternoon which led to the banquet on Saturday evening. State Senator Randy Feenstra (‘87) and Debra Broek (‘80) were the keynote speakers for the banquet. The Hull American Legion set the tone for the evening by presenting the colors. Shelly Van Otterloo (‘91) sang the national anthem. Over 850 people from around the country traveled to Hull to attend the banquet. People came from California, Michigan, Colorado, Florida, South Dakota, and several other states to celebrate. The oldest alumni that attended was from the class of 1944.

On Sunday afternoon, over 1000 people attended the celebratory worship service. Pastor Cliff Hoekstra (‘74) from Rock Rapids CRC brought the message. His message was based on Lamentations 3 and how God has been faithful through the generations. The comment that summarizes the weekend best was that the Holy Spirit was in this place that weekend.

100th Anniversary books were on sale during the weekend. There are copies still available for $20 apiece if they are picked up in the office. Books can be shipped for $25 if you are unable to pick it up. There are also 100th Anniversary mugs available in the office. They are five dollars apiece.