The Bell, December 2022

STAFF

Direction: PETER JENKINS

Photography & Graphic Design: SELENA VAN KLOMPENBERG

Writers: MOLLY KEHRER, TIFFANY KRAKER, TAYLOR NORRIS, CARA WICKSTRA Editors: TIFFANY KRAKER, TOM JOUSTRA

Board of Trustees:

DR. ANN HEMMEKE, PRESIDENT JEFF DORNBOS, VICE PRESIDENT CHRIS LAMER ‘93, TREASURER KRISTA BROWER, SECRETARY GEOFF BREMER MOLLY KEHRER STEVE LANGELAND ‘88 DAVE MUMA CRAIG OOSTERHOUSE JOEL PYPER TRAVIS SENIK MARY VANDAM ANDY VANDER ZWAAG

Administration:

DR. TIM MCABOY, HEAD OF SCHOOL TIM PAAUW, MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL BETSY KOOP ‘98, ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL ALICIA ZANDSTRA, PRESCHOOL DIRECTOR TRACY NELESEN, EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT STACY DETERS, DIR. OF SUPPORT SERVICES KARYL MORIN, DIR. OF LEARNING INNOVATION JODI PIERCE, DIR. OF IMMERSION

MIKE ARENDSEN, DIR. OF FINANCE & OPERATIONS PETER JENKINS, DIR. OF ADVANCEMENT NATALIA MCGOWEN, DIR OF ADMISSIONS & ENROLLMENT TIFFANY KRAKER, DIR. OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

A NOTE FROM OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL

Parents and Guardians,

When a small group of parents partnered with the six Christian Reformed churches (CRC) of Zeeland to establish Zeeland Christian School in 1915, they did so as a reflection of the CRC’s position, “that all the church’s children have an opportunity to receive an education where the lordship of Jesus Christ is acknowledged.”

While our school families attend churches of many different denominations, ZCS continues to work to fulfill our mission to provide a “…Christian education based on a Reformed understanding of the Christian faith. We do so as an extension of the Christian family, assisting parents in carrying out their responsibility to instruct their children in the Christian faith.”

As I’ve considered the role of ZCS in the lives of our students, I’m so grateful for the opportunities we all have to share the Truth and love of Christ every day here at school. Our desire is to underscore the message of the Gospel that families are already sharing with their children—both at home and through regular participation in a church community. Along these lines, I’m reflecting on the fact that overall church attendance was already declining nationally prior to the pandemic, and now I personally know of many people who have been slow to return to church following the pandemic. Others attend but are not involved or serving. This is another counted cost we have to take seriously when we look back on the past few years.

Being a parent of children in Christian schools, I understand the temptation or inclination to back away from the church as our children find a Christian community at school. My own children attend Bible studies and book clubs led by their teachers and coaches; they worship in school and have Bible classes. These are beautiful realities, and yet the intent of the founders of Zeeland Christian was never for the school to replace the role of the church, so we must proceed with caution. Church and school together are partners with parents as they “carry out their responsibility to instruct their children in the Christian faith,” and if this partnership is weakened at any stage, the discipleship of our children is challenged, too.

In my years in Christian school leadership, many pastors and youth leaders have commented to me on the lack of participation of families and students who attend Christian schools. Recognizing this trend—of students and families pulling away from church life and involvement—is something that gives me pause. It is our hope that all students here be “trained up” by all three pillars of faith support (family, church, and school) as they work cohesively together.

We desire for each of your children to gain a greater understanding of God’s salvific love within our walls at ZCS, and we also strongly encourage participation in one of the many incredible church communities we have surrounding us. If we can be of help to you or your family in finding a local church home, we would celebrate the opportunity.

In Christ, Tim McAboy

KENDRA LAARMAN

was born in the wrong era. I love old houses, old music, and old books (Jane Austen!). I am not great with technology, I find the breakneck pace of life and social media exhausting, and I resist change. Goodness, that makes me sound old, doesn’t it?

ZCS has always been a place of belonging to me. When I was a little girl, I used to help my dad in his classroom and hang out with his students at basketball games he coached. So in some ways, I feel like I grew up here! I want to welcome others to this amazing place of belonging too! This is my 10th year here overall, 6th year teaching. I love teaching my littles. I love sharing books with

them, exploring outdoors with them, playing with them, and planning school experiences for them. I think I always have them in mind, whether shopping, or walking in the woods, or reading. I often stop to pick something up to share with them, or an idea comes to me that I’d like to try in the classroom. It brings me so much JOY to be a small part of their lives!

I love many things about ZCS: its amazing staff, its dedication to providing quality, Christ-centered education, and its focus on building relationships with students and families. The inclusion program, in particular, has blessed my girls. They have learned that all truly do belong. Students with differences

don’t stand out as so different to them. Each student is a piece of the beautiful puzzle that makes up the ZCS student body.

“I think I always have them in mind, whether shopping, or walking in the woods, or reading. I often stop to pick something up to share with them, or an idea comes to me that I’d like to try in the classroom.”

Currently, I teach Spanish world language for grades 1-5 (Elementary Spanish). Over the years I have taught every grade level from preschool through 8th grade, and each is so special. Each grade level that I’ve taught has helped me to value kids and their teachers in a unique way. I studied abroad in Mexico, and spent a summer working for Young Life (Vida Joven) in Costa Rica. I went to Zeeland Christian [as a student]. I have worked at ZCS for about 15 years.

I feel blessed to be at Zeeland Christian. When I was looking for a teaching job my last year of college, there were not many jobs. In fact, my husband and I considered moving to a new country/state, and we were totally open to wherever God called us. Much to our surprise and delight, we felt God calling us to stay in West Michigan.

I am passionate about helping kids see how our big God loves each one of His children. As we learn Spanish and more about God’s people and world, we celebrate all the ways God created us special and unique, which includes different languages,

LINDSEY SLENK WORLD LANGUAGE

cultures, etc. We also celebrate the things we have in common with one another as the Body of Christ. Spanish has truly opened up my mind and heart to how awesome our God is, and I love being able to teach that to kids as well.

I love that Zeeland Christian is a Christ-centered community. It isn’t perfect, but it is good because the Holy Spirit is helping us! This was life changing for me as a student, especially as I journeyed through my parents’ divorce. The Christ centered community has also been huge for me as a staff member, as I have been blessed to live out my faith with actions and words at work, and also as I have been supported through different highs and lows in life.

“As we learn Spanish and more about God’s people and world, we celebrate all the ways God created us special and unique, which includes different languages, cultures, etc. We also celebrate the things we have in common with one another as the Body of Christ.”

What is your full name?

Julie Walters

What is your title at ZCS?

2nd Grade Teacher

What grades and/or program are you involved with?

2nd grade

What is something readers might not know about you?

Readers might not know that my first teaching job was in Florida. I loved visiting Sea World on the weekends!

Why do you choose to work at ZCS?

It is a privilege to teach at ZCS and to partner with families every day! I GET to teach kids about how to grow as an awesome thinker and learner - with God! Also, the ZCS staff is a gifted and rich community who truly cares for each other.

How long have you worked at ZCS?

This is my 15th year at ZCS!

What are you passionate about?

I love to see kids grow as readers! In 2nd grade kids grow by leaps and bounds throughout the year. They are excited to learn all about new things, especially from their Bible. That excites me!

What do you love most about Zeeland Christian?

At ZCS, I love the fact that we are intentional to have the good news of Jesus woven in everything we do. Bible lessons are not just an “add on”. He is the WHY for all we do at ZCS.

Tell us about 10 seconds that changed your life: When I said, “I Do” to my husband 30 years ago!

Tell us about your family:

My husband Mike and I have 3 kids (+2 from marriage!). They are all grown up now. Rachel is married to Ben and lives in Kalamazoo. Ben is married to Easton, and they live in Illinois. Sarah lives in North Carolina with some roommates from college. I love it when everyone is able to be home in Zeeland at the same time! We enjoy going to visit them, playing games together, camping, and hiking. We also really enjoy music, singing, and worshiping at church and at outdoor summer concerts.

& Q with

A

JULIE WALTERS

A JOURNEY FROM CHINA TO ZCS

BY: CARA WICKSTRA

We are excited to welcome Rebecca Pian or “Pian Laoshi” as the newest addition to our Mandarin program! She is serving in the K/1st classroom as a teaching assistant, Mandarin reading support for elementary and advisor for the Mandarin 8th grade students. Rebecca has been in the school setting her entire life including 20 years as a teacher and administrator in China. She feels at home in the classroom and especially enjoys the environment at Zeeland Christian. “I like how the children can freely worship and talk about faith in the classroom. In China, that’s impossible.” She also enjoys the student-centered approach, as opposed to China’s teacher-centered learning. She feels it is a privilege to work at ZCS.

When she’s not at school, Rebecca enjoys kayaking, reading about history, and traveling. She has a joyful and welcoming smile and is already a blessing to our Mandarin classrooms.

Her journey to Zeeland Christian was a unique process. Six years ago, she enrolled in the Calvin Seminary in hopes to utilize her training for a ministry in China. Three years later, the Chinese political situation changed and her ministry was closed. Through prayer and wise counsel, she decided to transfer to Calvin University where she earned her Teaching degree. A current ZCS staff member, who was her co-worker back in China, reached out to Rebecca for suggestions of mandarin teachers, not realizing Rebecca was already in Grand Rapids. Once her degree was finished, she joined the ZCS team! Rebecca believes that these connections are not a coincidence for Christians.

As she reflects on her faith journey, she sees God’s hands guiding her steps even before she knew Him. Rebecca grew up in a German-style coastal city in China during a time when Christians were persecuted for their faith. As a child, she had serious health issues and wrestled with the fear of death at a very young age. Growing up without the good news of Jesus, her life felt meaningless and without hope. She sensed the emptiness even during the happiest moments of her life.

And yet, God was on the move. After graduation, she attended a summer training camp for teachers. The leaders were from the United States and one of them shared the gospel. She felt the peace of God right away and immediately wanted to know how to pray. Miraculously, when she returned home she found that her mom and sisters had also heard the gospel from a neighbor and all accepted Christ! This neighbor connected them to a house church where they would sneak into an apartment to worship, closing the doors and windows so no one would hear them. It was another miracle to find a house church so quickly since no one talked about Jesus. There was a beautiful reverence to the Bible in those days since only the leader owned a few copies. She remembers copying the Psalms and Book of John by hand. Now there are Bibles everywhere, but then it was a precious gift. She sees how this persecution strengthened her faith.

Now when Rebecca faces an unknown future, curiosity replaces her worry. She watches expectantly to see what God will do. Let’s join her, expectantly watching as we Burn Bright!

Pian Laoshi helping students with pronunciation.

#OUR ZCS STORY

WELCOMING NATALIA & TIFFANY TO THE ZCS

FAMILY

Results from the 2022 Spring surveys that were administered by a national enrollment consultant provided consistent feedback: our ZCS Community’s desire for more children to experience a Christian education at ZCS. To impact more families, growing the Advancement team was recommended to support our efforts in amplifying the mission of ZCS.

The mission of Zeeland Christian School is to provide a high-quality Christian education based on the Reformed understanding of the Christian faith. We do so as an extension of the Christian family, assisting parents in carrying out their responsibility to instruct their children in the Christian faith.

Our goal is to enable students to function to their fullest potential in contemporary society as Christian citizens who personally respond in loving obedience to God’s revealed will, who recognize the significance of serving others with their lives, and who accept their responsibility toward the world in which they live.

Left to right: Selena Van Klompenberg, Tiffany Kraker, Jennifer Schafer, Peter Jenkins, Lois Gerritsma, Natalia McGowen, Nakisha DeJong

BURN BRIGHT

Natalia McGowen, Director of Admissions and Enrollment, has spent the last decade in healthcare, primarily connecting families to hospice services. She has her Bachelor’s of Organizational and Corporate Communications/Public Relations from the University of Texas-El Paso. Supporting families through transitions is an area McGowen feels most comfortable in, “Establishing relationships is very important to me. In my previous field, working with families on end-of-life care is very personal, and you have to build trust. Building that trust with parents as they choose the best educational experience for their children is very important. From my experience, parents want what’s best for their children, including peace of mind when dropping off their children every day,” said Natalia.

Stepping into the Director of Marketing and Communications role is a position Tiffany Kraker feels

confident in. She previously provided creative services to small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and the public sector for nearly 15 years through her family-owned business. Most recently, she contributed to the City of Zeeland Marketing Department by providing digital marketing management. She specializes in content creation and strategy, studied Occupational Studies at Washtenaw Community College, and received her certification in Social Media Marketing from Cornell University. “I believe that cultivating and nurturing a community is vital, especially when working with families. The opportunity for me to share the testimonies and experiences of ordinary people doing extraordinary work is humbling. In addition to being filled with gratitude, I’m honored to become a part of the ZCS story, “ Tiffany shared.

Welcome to the ZCS family, Natalia and Tiffany!

REFLECTIONS ON ZCS AS AN 8TH GRADER

KAYLEIGH VANDYK

At ZCS we have the amazing opportunity of learning 3 different languages. Knowing English, you can speak to 17% of the world. Knowing English and Spanish, you can speak to 25% of the world. Knowing English, Spanish, and Mandarin Chinese, you can speak to 40% percent of the world. I don’t know about you, but I think that is pretty powerful. We only have this opportunity though, through Zeeland Christian’s amazing teachers. The teachers here are absolutely wonderful, but here are a few teachers who inspire potential in me. Mrs. Zastrow, who inspires me to try hard and do my best. Who also continues to fuel the flame of my love for reading. Maestra Snellink, quien me enseñó que es importante aprender español. La maestra también está ayudandome con el idioma afuera de mis clases. 周老师教了我怎样当一个耶稣的门徒。他也

when you’re a middle schooler, it can be hard to express your feelings in your own words. Zeeland Christian has also deepened my faith as the lessons and values of my teachers connect with those of my church and family.

The ZCS community, as a whole, is kind, loving, and understanding, and it inspires me to be the same in my life.

What use are these languages though if you don’t have something to say? This is how ZCS has inspired my faith. During 7th grade camp at Camp Geneva, we had the opportunity to worship together as a whole grade. We gathered in the worship area and began to sing songs. This was particularly impactful for me because I really enjoy worship. This felt like we weren’t just friends from school, it felt like we were coming together as one, children of the most high worshiping him through song. This worship allowed us to express our joy and thankfulness to Him. Worship is so important because,

Throughout my years at Zeeland Christian I’ve made great friends, through field trips, amazing lessons, and especially chapels. At the beginning of 6th grade, I met some pretty great girls. One has supported me especially through middle school. She is amazing, and she has shown me Jesus through her kindness. If I’m sad or frustrated, she always comforts me and gives me a hug. If it weren’t for her, I probably wouldn’t have made it through middle school with a smile on my face. The ZCS community, as a whole, is kind, loving, and understanding, and it inspires me to be the same in my life.

I’d like to take a moment to thank those who have helped me grow and become a better young woman. I am very grateful for a school that inspires all things in my life and connects the values that are most important to me. Thank you for investing in me and my classmates as we continue along God’s path for us.

What do you love about Zeeland Christian?

We love the support we receive from the teachers and staff. Our kids feel loved and safe going there and don’t have the same anxieties as they did at their previous school. It’s a loving environment and our kids get to experience so many new things, including having God be part of their daily conversations.

Why did you choose ZCS for your children?

We chose ZCS for their Mandarin program; and their focus on the whole success of the child, not just academics.

In what ways have you seen your children grow in their faith as a result of their experiences at ZCS?

My oldest will pray out loud; he will hear of someone struggling and pray for them. Our youngest knows without a doubt that he is loved by God for being exactly who he is, which is a message repeated to him often at school.

What is something new you have learned about ZCS that you didn’t know prior to joining the ZCS family? That there are many programs to encourage outdoor activities, like the ski club!

What is the one word your family would use to describe the ZCS experience?

Loving, welcoming

What would you tell other parents to encourage them to consider enrolling their children at Zeeland Christian School?

Take the tour so you can feel the joy in the school. You will see that every kid is allowed to be their unique self and supported so that they can grow on their own time and in their own way; you will hear laughter and excitement; you will see people helping each other and you will know your kids are safe.

What is one thing that you hope ZCS will provide for your family?

A safe & loving school experience for both boys to grow up in.

A Message From Our Board President

Parents and Guardians,

As I think back over my own life, I never had an intentional “process” for forming my faith. Rather, the Lord has sovereignly and graciously used a collection of people, events, and situations to bring me to this point. I am especially grateful to the people who influenced me through all my years of school. Looking back, they were critical.

My children are first-generation Christian school students, and my husband and I are so thankful for all the ways their faith is being shaped and deepened in direct relationship with their academic development—by the same people who are teaching them their core subjects. Each interaction our children have during their days is a touchpoint for spiritual growth. An intentional process for faith formation woven throughout their school fulfills the directive of the ZCS mission and is an additional layer of opportunity for students to holistically mature.

With this in mind for every student, our Board considers faith formation at ZCS through the lens of questions like the following:

-What is the result of a ZCS graduate functioning to his or her fullest potential in contemporary society as a Christian citizen?

-What does a life of service centered on others look like in the middle of an individualistic culture?

-What is our responsibility toward the world as it becomes increasingly hostile to God?

-What needs to happen inside the walls of ZCS in order to make sure our mission statement is not simply aspirational?

-What is ZCS’ role alongside parents and churches as we nurture children and families?

It is the Board’s desire that the community of Zeeland Christian will have impact in each student’s life as one of many points where faith is formed and deepened. We are committed to working with the staff and experts at ZCS to determine what is essential for students to grow academically—and more importantly, to grow as image-bearers of God, ready to serve him. This is a dynamic discussion that must be ongoing so that ZCS can address the needs that exist in an ever-changing world.

Ultimately, we care deeply about Zeeland Christian’s role in the faith formation of each student, and we also recognize that true faith formation is uniquely personal and flows from a genuine relationship with our loving Creator. While we seek to diligently steward the responsibility we have, we trust the process to God knowing that ZCS is an important step along the way. We are so grateful for each of your families and it is a privilege to partner with you as we walk faithfully together, growing in individual faith and knowledge so that Christ may be glorified in the unity of His people.

Bright, Dr. Ann Hemmeke ZCS Board Chair

Burn

Endowment

The Zeeland Christian School

Endowment Fund is designed in a unique and intentional way. Its vision is to allow anyone who wants a Christian education to be able to access one - especially those who need financial help the most.

A gift to the endowment fund TODAY has QUADRUPLE the impact.

• Increases the Endowment Grant for each student

• Provides assistance to those who need it most through the THRIVE Fund

• Families can GIVE BACK their Endowment Grant to fund THRIVE

• The interest from your gift will increase the endowment fund balance over time.

Estate Gifts

• Estate gifts have been the largest source of funding for the endowment since its creation in 1989, with the largest gift being $1.7 million!

• In partnership with Haans Mulder at Cunningham Dulman Law Firm, you can have a basic will created for only $1,000 (33% off) if you include ZCS.

• If you include ZCS at 5% of your estate or $25,000, we will pay $1,000 of your total invoice!

Annual Funds

Tuition Assistance Fund Need $350,000

Give the gift of ZCS to families who need financial assistance up to 50% of tuition.

The THRIVE Scholarship Fund Need $150,000

Give the gift of ZCS to families who need financial assistance beyond 50% of tuition. 90% of current THRIVE recipients are minority families.

Tim Bosch Fund Need $135,000

You can make sure every student is included and belongs at ZCS by helping reach the goal of $135,000 for the 2022-23 school year to offset our Student Support Services budget. Your gift is powerfully formative and life-changing for every ZCS student.

Facility Projects

Finish carpet in the middle and front hallway Sensory Room Phase 1 Gym AC Repave south parking lot Converting over Lighting to LED Paint Hallways Paint Gym Paint Classrooms

New 1st Grade Lockers by Rooms

$25,000 $40,000 $90,000 $30,000 $18,000 $10,000 $25,000 $3,000$4,000 $50-$1000 Gifts $5,000