In our increasingly individualized society, many of us often feel alone. In past months of COVID closures, our ability to connect with others was largely dependent on technology. A scary thought for some. Sometimes we are actually alone; at other times, we simply feel lonely. Some of us, conditioned by our culture, believe we are better off by ourselves and think we do not need the help of others. However, the gospel—and all of Scripture, for that matter—reinforces the truth that we were created for community. God created us not to be isolated beings, but rather people who live life with others.
Among our faculty, at Western, we use the term Collective Teacher Efficacy (CTE), a fancy phrase that represents the collective belief of the staff in our ability to impact students positively. Professor John Hattie, an educational researcher, has earned a lot of attention from the publication of his Visible Learning meta-study. Dr. Hattie found that Collective Teacher Efficacy is one of, if not the strongest variable in raising student achievement. A school staff that believes it can collectively accomplish great things is vital for the health of a school. I am happy to report that Western’s CTE is very high and growing every day. Can you imagine choosing a school where this was not a priority?
The opposite of ‘collective’ is ‘independent’. Our one-hundred- year old school simply would not exist if we chose to try to operate our school alone and for the sake of ourselves. We do it to make
disciples. Lately, we have been calling our broader society a “Learning Community” because we don’t do this type of cultivating in isolation. We require communion, partnership, a sharing of intimate thoughts, feelings, and convictions. And we call on the “three-legged stool” to proceed. A firm foundation is established when the community of church-home-school is aligned. What beauty!
Creating a learning community gives students a sense of security, study pals, and somebody to double-check with about assignments. Creating a learning community requires an occasional risk, entering into a zone where we are uncomfortable and may not know all the answers. Creating a learning community allows people groups to disagree and still find areas of unity. Creating a learning community opens the door for people to teach us, hold us accountable, pray with us, and carry our burdens. As you flip through the pages of our newly designed Western Witness, please consider how you can become an invested member of our learning community for your joy and for the glory of God.
In mission, together.
From the day we opened in 1919, music has been an integral part of our curriculum and worship. Orchestra is one of our offerings, and we’re excited to see how this program is blossoming on our campus and in our community. Orchestra students come together 1st period every day to rehearse under the direction of Mrs.
Amie Smit.SCHOOL
Welcome to the Pack
Snapshots from the School
Booster Club Financial Report
Wolfpack Athletics
Placing Students at the Center
Just My Thoughts
Counselor’s Corner
Memorial Gifts
A Student’s Perspective
Upcoming Events
Brian Verwolf, Head Administrator
New Faculty & Staff:
Six people joined the Western Christian faculty and staff this school year. Some faces are familiar, while others moved a great distance to become a part of our Learning Community.
Mr. Jerry DeGroot had been teaching at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, but his desire to move back closer to family drew him to Northwest Iowa and Western Christian. DeGroot brings over 20 years of teaching experience of middle and high school students and 18 years of college-level math. His wealth of experience is a blessing to Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus, and Physics students. After the first week of school, DeGroot remarked, “I am impressed with the enthusiasm that they (the students) share each day. It’s a bit of a change from teaching at the university level, but I am enjoying the energy that high school students bring to the classroom.”
The Math Department added a part-time instructor. Mr. Lucas Den Herder, class of 2016, is excited for this opportunity, “After walking these halls for four years and often taking it for granted, then going through four years of college thus far, my appreciation for Christian education has gone up tremendously. I look forward to taking on this new role and taking part in developing Christian leaders.”
Mrs. Haley Broersma, WC class of 2014, is filling in for Mrs. Katie Reitsma (Family and Consumer Science Department) during her maternity leave. She is also coaching the freshman volleyball team. Broersma attended Dordt University and then taught in Washington before returning to Iowa. Her thoughts on returning to WC’s were, “I am so excited to be back at Western, where I received my high school education. Even though I am here short term as a maternity leave substitute, it feels great to give back to the school that helped shape and develop my future goals. I appreciate the foundation of faith that Western helped me put into action in each and every subject area. I am excited to be part of a staff that can help students go out into the world and show the light of Jesus to a broken and needing world.”
A much-needed addition to the staff was an upper-level Spanish Instructor. Ms. Bobbi Jeltema filled this position. Jeltema has worked in many different schools, teaching all Spanish levels. She has taught and lived in Florida, Portugal, Michigan, Honduras, California, Virginia, and, most recently, Maryland. Western is excited to draw upon her extensive experience. Jeltma shared her thoughts on what brought her to Western after working in many different places. “I have learned it’s important to listen for God’s
voice and obey. Through several open doors, I knew God was telling me to come to Northwest Iowa to teach Spanish. Personally, I like to travel and see new places and meet new people. That’s why I like Saint Augustine’s quote that says, “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.”
Another alumni that returned to instruct Western students is Mrs. Josie Van Ginkel (Class of 2014). Van Ginkel is the Academic Support Coach. Van Ginkel most recently served as a Life Skills teacher at Harrisburg High School in Harrisburg, SD. “My favorite part of teaching is coming up with creative ways of educating students that may not excel in the “traditional classroom.” All students can learn, and my passion is finding ways for students to be successful,” said Van Ginkel when asked about being a part of the Western staff.
Dr. Bill Elgersma is a new Career and Vocational Counselor. Elgermsa wants everyone to know that his role as vocational director here at WC is to dream with our students and then figure out what is necessary to make those dreams reality. For the past 20 years, Elgersma has been serving at Dordt University as a Professor of English and Academic Counselor.
The senior class of 2021 gathered together for an evening of food and fellowship at the home of Head Administrator, Brian Verwolf on August 13th. This tradition began last year and it will certainly continue as it sets the tone for the year. Seniors are challenged to be strong, positive leaders for our student body.
What struck me was how quickly we got right back to normal. We played games and talked like we had just had school the day before. I think this gave everyone confidence for the year ahead.
-Ethan Spronk, Student Body Preseident
Students were all smiles to re-enter the school building on August 24th!
Freshman students came together as a class for the first time on August 20th for orientation. Student leaders and faculty members led them through ice-breaking activities, discussed the benefits of taking risks and getting involved, and students ran through a mock school day. This evening was extra important as the class of 2024 missed out on the traditional 8th Grade Day last spring.
The Event Center continues to provide a worshipful space with added chairs on the floor to spread students out for chapels and assemblies.
The lunch line looks a little different this school year, but our students are learning patience as they space themselves out. Students have had the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful weather and eat lunch outside.
Beautiful music is still able to be made while wearing masks in Concert Choir and Cantus. These two classes have made adaptations in where and how they meet to help keep all involved safe.
Homecoming: an annual tradition of fun activities and dress-up days in which students show off their school spirit. In essence, it’s the perfect opportunity to come together as a school and celebrate. Western’s Homecoming week was early in the school year, which didn’t get the Student Council much time to plan, but
time wasn’t a problem. The Student Council, under the supervision of Mr. Derek Keizer, did an excellent job providing the students with many memory-making moments.
The hallways and steps were decorated. Gaga-ball was enjoyed on two different days due to the weather keeping students inside. At the Homecoming chapel, Haley Broresma (class of 2014) and her sister Siena Moss (class of 2021) beautifully presented the classic hymn ‘It Is Well with my Soul’ and ‘Give Me Jesus.’ Mr. Lyle Van Ravenswaay accompanied them. Dr. Jonathan Bleeker (class of 1997) spoke to the students and staff about the challenges of living in ‘Unprecedented’ times.
Hallways and stairs showcase school spirit
Haley Broresma & Siena Moss, accompanied by Mr. Van Ravenswaay
Dr. Jonathan Bleeker
Ga-ga-ball
Senior representatives
This year’s Senior representatives, chosen by their classmates, were: Braelynn Kamstra, Kira Ouwinga, Kendra Wynia, Madison Vis, Maggie Kats, Jadyn Faber, Tyson Boer, Carson Elbers, Kyler VanVoorst, Ethan Spronk, Jacob Christians, and Bailey Baccam.
Friday afternoon, students enjoyed participating in either a co-ed volleyball tournament or a ping-pong tournament. At 2:30, students gathered in the Event Center for the always favorite ‘Mr. Spirit’ competition at the pep rally. The enthusiasm at the pep rally carried over to
the football game, where the Wolfpack defeated Sibley-Ochedyen 27-7. The wet conditions didn’t dampen the Western Spirit!
Homecoming week was a great time for the Student Body and a good distraction from everything else that has gone on in 2020.
-Senior Jacob Christians “
Before the game began, the Senior Class Representatives were introduced. Braelynn Kamstra and Tyson Boer were selected as Head Representatives. During the festivities,
another special moment was the honoring of our local first responders during the National Anthem that the Western choirs sang acapella.
The baseball and softball seasons may have been short, but they were special! The head coaches spent time reflecting on what joy it was to come together and compete after the uncertainty surrounding the seasons due to COVID-19.
Trent Roose, Western’s Head Baseball coach, said, “We had to overcome a limited practice time before the season began. I am proud of how focused the team was in continuing to develop and improve from last year. During the season, we had restrictions that were necessary but still an inconvenience for each player. Players were dedicated to take the precautions and keep each other accountable. Without the work ethic and dedication from each player, we wouldn’t have taken another big step in the right direction for Western Christian baseball. It was a fun summer that I will cherish.”
The baseball team used Philippians 2:3-4 as their focus on the year. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” This verse was important because to be a great team, every team needs great leaders. Leaders challenge, encourage, and focus on the team rather than themselves. Baseball is a very statistical game. Our team didn’t want our focus to be on stats/performance but on what each person on the team can do for the team.
The Senior softball players also chose a verse from Philippians for their theme verse. “Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a
crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world.” (Phillippians 2:14-15) This verse was appropriate because the team was given reason to complain, but they used this verse to always compete with a positive attitude.
Head Coach, Mike DeJong remarked, “As frustrating as COVID was, we felt this also brought our team closer together. After losing Spring sports, the girls realized that seasons could be taken away from you instantly. This realization forced everyone to focus on things within our control and continue to improve by working together. The team held each other accountable not only on the field but off the field as well.”
The girls realized that seasons could be taken away from you instantly. This realization forced everyone to focus on things within our control and continue to improve by working together.
- Mike De Jong, softball head coachA highlight of the season was the comeback win over Spencer during the last week of the season. The team scored seven runs in the bottom of the 6th inning to win the game 10-9! The Softball team graduated some great Seniors, but there is a good core of returning players who will continue to propel the Softball program forward.
What do discipleship opportunities, academic support, job shadowing, course selection, community partnerships, ACT preparation, scholarship searches, and pastoral care have in common? These services are just a few of many resources Western Christian provides our students through the Student Services program. Six of our staff members make up our diverse Student Services Team (SST).
Placing students at the center of their own learning requires their collaboration. They need a voice in why, what, and how learning experiences take shape. Our Student Services Team is united in our goal to walk alongside students during this busy and transitional period of their lives. Here is a deeper dive into the services the team provides our students:
Dr. Bill Elgersma is the newest member of the Wolfpack. His role as our Vocational Director involves career and college guidance as well as a myriad of other projects under development. Some examples are career fairs, building job shadowing and mentor
relationships, developing apprenticeships, teaching workplace skills, mock interviews, and more. Mrs. Karinda deBoom serves as our Academic Registrar. Her areas of expertise are scheduling and course selection, graduation requirements, college scholarships, and financial aid. She also assists students with extended options such as dual credit, work release, and teacher assistant programs.
Mrs. Karen Christians is our Discipleship Director, and she facilitates opportunities for authentic and meaningful worship on
and off-campus, chapels, Faithpacks, and Bible studies, to name a few. She counsels and prays with our students, teaches all juniors and seniors, and has touchpoints with students in all grades. Finally, in the area of academic support, Mrs. Mary Dirksen serves in the Learning Center with Mrs. Josie Van Ginkel, our academic support coach and, Mrs. Diana Kooima, our super paraprofessional. The Learning Center is open to all students. Some students receive one-on-one or small group support, while other students pop in for occasional help, proofreading, homework checks, and ACT preparation.
Together, the Student Services Team holds weekly meetings to discuss student needs and brainstorm new ways in which we can grow the program and put students at the center of their own learning. At the same time, we desire to continue to build partnerships with parents and our local communities to offer creative ways for students to grow and learn from real-world opportunities in and outside of the regular classroom. If you have ideas for us, please contact one of our Student Services members. We would love to hear from you!
Mrs. Mary Dirksen, Director of Student Services
We are back to School! As many supporters of Western can imagine, it has been true JOY to start this school year and be a part of a noisy, bustling learning community once again. As I drove to Western on August 24, our very first day of classes, I experienced a true mix of many wonderful, anticipatory emotions! I realized again, yet more deeply than ever before, how much I need this place. And the past two weeks have proven to me how much we gain by learning together.
Most people could guess the highlights of learning and growing together again, especially after the distance experienced among all of us during the past five months. Allow me to share just a few snapshots of my joy! The faculty and staff sang together. Led by a few teachers, our acapella version of “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” sounded like a polished choir in my ears. Sharing summer and life highlights over a meal during our inservice days reconnected us and our lives in important ways. We welcomed new members to our staff and got to know their gifts, thanking God as each one was introduced for the masterful way He had answered the prayers we lifted when staff openings had occurred in the past months.
Then the students arrived on Monday and brought their youthful exuberant energy to our building. I greeted wide-eyed freshmen who together navigated the hallways and their brand new schedules. They sometimes frantically guided each other through locker combinations,
celebrating life’s small victories when the “click” happened, the door opened, and friendships emerged. We gathered for prayer and for chapel, all together. Again, singing together never sounded so sweet to me; over 260 voices singing “I Surrender All” blessed my ears and my heart.
My classes meet in Room 305. After only a few days, even though we all had new schedules, new class lists, we established a rhythm together–talking, listening, wondering, growing. My Church History students brainstormed ways we as Christ’s church today can have beautiful feet (Isaiah 52:7, Romans 10:15) as we carry out His Great Commission. My seniors in Bible 12 gathered ideas on urging one another on to meaningful daily devotions as a way to bless each other. And my speech students, some with true anxiety about speaking in front of a class, tackled the task of defending a classmate’s statement on what was learned during the COVID distance living of the past 5 months. I got the privilege of hearing student after student share discoveries such as: being outside in nature keeps me grounded, personal devotions became vital to me, my family really is essential in my life, as well as worshipping together in church.
I am so blessed to be able to participate in this learning every day. And yet, there is another side to learning in community that can not be ignored; it must not be ignored. In addition to the highlight reel of teaching, there is the tough stuff. There are the issues and situations that arise which demand an
obedient response to our lifelong mission of Learning to Serve the King. The work of following Christ for us as fallen, sinful people is work. We need ongoing opportunities to learn and often re-learn these critical lessons, and after 29 years in the classroom and after five months of being out of a traditional classroom setting, it is these opportunities I now recognize as most important for us to do and practice together.
We are learning that our drive to school isn’t a race or an opportunity to put ourselves or other motorists at risk. We are learning and practicing how to line up a whole new way for lunch, using tape along the wall as our guide; we need practice, guidance, and frequent reminders. (If you’re a hungry sophomore boy, you may need minute-by-minute reminders.) We are learning how to respect one another with the words that we use, even when that means meeting with a teacher or assistant principal to recognize how our words disrespected someone or objectified a group. We are learning how to share a table in class with someone we have had a conflict with since grade school. And after admitting our own selfishness, we realize God calls us to just “be the bigger person” and show kindness rather than build a wall. We are learning to do the work set before us with diligence and care, and then to get it handed in on time.
So while teaching at high school is lifegiving, it can also be exhausting. But it is the exhausting part that may be the very most important part. When we live in community, we put into practice the life we are called to live in every community–loving God first and our neighbors as ourselves. That doesn’t come naturally for any of us, so we need a lot of practice and that practice is most authentic and most impactful when it happens in community–in our Western learning community.
Just my thoughts, KC
Good day! My name is Bill Elgersma, and for ease of understanding, my title is Guidance Counselor at Western. While that is a familiar title, in the 21st century, the role has changed significantly with the most recent generations of students.
Working with the Student Services group, we have charted out the year relative to a hierarchy of needs based on students’ years to graduation. Our intent in Student Services is to have our students self assess earlier so they have an inventory of their strengths and challenges and are better able to make informed decisions towards a vocation. Therefore, students from freshman through senior year will be systematically engaged in introspective work to better understand themselves, in turn, inspiring a life filled with purposeful learning in communion with one another.
Early in the fall, seniors will be my top priority as they make plans to enter the workforce directly or post-secondary education within the year. Career fairs, college visits, job shadowing, potential internships as well as ACT/SAT, college application, and scholarship deadlines are all important, and seniors need to be aware of these and moving in a positive direction relative to them. As well, I will be working with seniors who are just beginning to explore vocational options in an effort to help them discern what and where their gifts might be best used, and what criteria need to be met in order to make those opportunities possible.
My expectation is that seniors will be well on their way by November when I will start working with juniors. My focus will be helping them explore options and examine classes they plan to take, ensuring the classes are relevant, meaningful, and connected to what they perceive to be their future.
I will start working with the sophomores in late January into February as they begin to consider their last two years of high school classes and areas of interest.
The freshmen will work with Mrs. Dirksen for most of the year, and I will start to come into contact with them as a group in March and April.
While all of this sounds neatly packaged and organized at the moment, all of us know that life happens, and as Robert Burns wrote, “The best-laid plans of mice and men gang aft awry…” What I have laid out is an overview before the year begins. As soon as the first bell rings, (and maybe before), things will change. And this is only a structure for their academic progress; much more than academic education occurs in our Christian school.
Regardless, I am here to serve in whatever capacity helps our students and this community as we seek to live in obedience to God’s calling in our lives.
Dr. Bill ElgersmaWestern Christian High School is grateful to receive memorial gifts in honor and memory of:
Peter Visser, Sioux Center. Pete and his wife Muriel had four children and several grandchildren that attended Western Christian. Children that attended Western Christian were Stan (‘66), Ruth (‘69), Dean (‘76); and Melissa (‘85).
Louis & Albertha Altena, Rock Valley. Louis and Albertha had two children and several grandchildren attend Western Christian. The children that attended Western Christian were Howard (‘71) and Garneth (‘74).
Jim Horstman, Sioux Center. Jim and his wife Joan (‘53) had four children that attended Western Christian. Children that attended Western Christian were David (‘76), Bryan (‘79). Steven (‘82), and Janna (‘84).
Sally De Groot, Hull. Sally was a member of the class of 1945 at Western. Sally and her husband John L. De Groot had a significant impact on Western Christian as John was the Principal at Western Christian from 19701982 and then served as an Interim Principal for one year in the late ’80s.
Gary Roetman, Hull. Gary was a member of the class of 1964. Gary and his wife Susan had four children that attended Western Christian. Children are Tim (‘91), Carrie (‘93), Michael (‘96), and Matt (‘98). Gary was instrumental in starting the Western Christian Athletic Booster Club in the early 1990s.
Nina Bolkema, Sheldon. Nina (Vanden Bosch) Bolkema was a proud member of the class of 1944. Nina and her husband Marv had five children, four of whom attended Western Christian and several grandchildren also attended Western Christian. Her children are Harlan, Judy (‘69), Jim (‘72), Myron (‘76), and Lyle (‘82).
Starting the school year with in-person learning means so much to me, along with many of my classmates. Learning in-person with classmates and friends is such a blessing. When I came back to Western on the first day of school, I felt the community and the closeness of family that I had missed so much over our fivemonth break from the school building.
I am very thankful for our teachers, staff, and board members who spent a lot of time developing a plan which enabled students to return to school this fall. They put so much time into doing their part in bringing the Western family back together, and it is not unnoticed. Being with classmates and friends every day is a gift from God that students have learned not to take for granted.
Western did well in implementing the fourth-quarter online learning when school was ordered to shut down. As students,
OCT. 2 - FFA Mum sale at the Home Football Game
OCT. 6 - FFA Fruit Sales Begin
OCT. 7 - Stewardship Day
OCT. 15 - Fall Music Festival
OCT. 30 - End of the 1st quarter
NOV. 2 & 3 - Parent-Teacher Conferences
however, we missed out! Western does very well when students learn together inside the classroom, through discussions and demonstrations. I personally felt like I missed out on the full Chemistry experience by not being in the lab with Mr. DeStigter.
I pray this school year continues to be in person and remains relatively normal. There are many things the senior class is looking forward to experiencing. I am most excited about being able to attend
NOV. 12 & 14 - Pack Players Present Cinderella Complex
NOV. 20 - Fall Bonanza
chapel again. Worshiping with friends and classmates during school is truly uplifting. Another activity that can only happen in person is Homecoming. Homecoming week always kicks off the school year. All the activities and dress-up days bring the whole school closer. My classmates and I missed out on prom though last year, so many of us are excited to have that experience next spring!
I think everyone at Western this year is really grateful that we are attending school in person. Please pray with me for the health and well-being of all staff and students. We are so blessed with this opportunity and will not take it for granted. We are all excited and hopeful for many of the activities that await us this school year! Thank you again to all who made this possible.
Jadyn Faber, WC Senior