The Bell Winter 2022

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT BRIAN KONYNENBELT PG. 6-7

THE BELL

ZCS FAMILY SPOTLIGHT THE HAMILTON FAMILY PG. 22-25

TEACHER SPOTLIGHTS PG. 8-11

#OURZCSSTORY PG. 12-13 WINTER 2022

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STAFF Direction: PETER JENKINS Art Direction: SELENA VAN KLOMPENBERG Photography: SELENA VAN KLOMPENBERG Graphic Designer: SELENA VAN KLOMPENBERG Writers: MOLLY KEHRER, SHANDA SPRICK, CARA WICKSTRA Editors: PETER JENKINS, MOLLY KEHRER

Board of Directors: GEOFFERY BREMER, PRESIDENT KRISTA BROWER, VICE PRESIDENT JEFF DORNBOS ANN HEMMEKE, SECRETARY MOLLY KEHRER CHRIS LAMER ‘93, TREASURER STEVE LANGELAND ‘88 CRAIG OOSTERHOUSE JOEL PYPER TRAVIS SENIK SHANDA SPRICK ANDY VANDER ZWAAG Administration: MIKE ARENDSEN, DIR. OF FINANCE & OPS. STACY DETERS, DIR. OF SUPPORT SERVICES PETER JENKINS, DIR. OF ADVANCEMENT BETSY KOOP, ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL TIM MCABOY, HEAD OF SCHOOL KARYL MORIN, DIR. OF LEARNING INNOVATION TRACY NELESEN, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TIM PAAUW, MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL JODI PIERCE, DIRECTOR OF IMMERSION NANCY PYLE, PRESCHOOL DIRECTOR

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A NOTE FROM OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:6 Recently, my family and I were sitting in church as our pastor recited a long section of John 3. Of course, John 3 is home to John 3:16, and as our pastor recited, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life,” a little boy no more than four years old shouted from the pew to his mother, “Hey, we ‘readed’ that before!”

Part of the mission of Zeeland Christian School states, “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.”

Proverbs 22’s instruction to “start children off on the way they should go” recognizes that we are all on a path. In parenting, we know that our ability to set and keep our children on a path is more possible while they are young. Our intentionality doesn’t guarantee that our children might not step off the path we’ve set for them, but being on a path to begin with is undoubtedly a better guide than no path at all. My wife and I are by no means done parenting, but with two young-adult daughters and a thirteen-year-old son, our parenting is part encouraging them on the right path and part praying with all we’ve got that they will choose it.

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In 2015, I was lost briefly at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Long story short, while my friends went ahead, I lay in the shade and fell asleep. There was no one around when I woke up, and I couldn’t find the trail. After wandering around and finding myself precariously on a narrow cliff, I simply shouted, “I could use a little help over here!” From just 10-15 yards away, another hiker replied, “I’m right over here.” Just admitting I needed help led me back to the right path.

More than anything else, we at Zeeland Christian want to be a place that comes alongside parents as you seek to raise your children to be men and women of God. God gave you the responsibility of raising your children–of putting them on the right path, and it’s the job of the Church and school to join you in this effort. We hope to teach and live out the love of Christ by example and to disciple your children every day at school. Together, we can guide children toward the light and hope of Christ, and certainly, we pray that every student here will head out into the world burning brighter for the Kingdom.

Privileged to be alongside you in “training up children on the way they should go.”

Burn Bright!

Tim McAboy Head of School

BRIAN KONYNENBELT, ZCS CLASS OF ‘97 Optometrist, Zeeland Vision

Twenty-five years after his time at Zeeland Christian, alum and local optometrist Brian Konynenbelt still applies lessons from grade school in his professional life every day. As an eye doctor, Brian interacts with patients from all walks of life. “Some might not have insurance, some are dealing with very difficult types of illness, and others are experiencing loss in their families, just to name a few,” Brian shares. “I think through the inclusive education program at ZCS, I learned to be accepting of people regardless of what season of life they are enduring.

Having students with learning and physical disabilities in our classrooms taught hands-on compassion.”

But it’s true. God calls us to live a certain way, to trust him, and to lean on him through difficult times in life. This ‘training’ is lifelong, not only as children but also as adults. Now that my wife, Michelle, and I have kids of our own, that verse rings true even more. Lots of things are thrown at us in life. Staying true to what God wants for our children, via the Bible’s guidance, is what we need to keep in our sights.”

Brian also talks about other aspects of influence from his time at Zeeland Christian.

“There used to be a Bible verse on the gym wall that said ‘Train up a child in the way he should go,’” he recalls. “Forgive me if it is still there; I haven’t been in the gym in forever.

If you’re a Zeeland Christian graduate, or if you’ve had students at ZCS over the years, you might smile hearing Brian recount some of his standout memories from middle school.

When asked what he’d share with future graduates of ZCS, Brian has more valuable wisdom to offer. “Be kind to one another,” he urges. “Get a job and learn how to work hard.

Learning responsibility and a good work ethic will open doors for success in the future.”

Basketball. Ski Club. Ironing. Growing plants.

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These subjects may seem diverse, but they’re all associated with fond memories for Brian.

He recalls daily basketball games on the short, 8-foot hoop at recess. Brian shares how he and classmates dunked on it so frequently that it often broke, and that at some point, the school removed the hoop altogether. That didn’t stop Brian from playing, though; he remembers being in 7th grade and Mr. Heeres challenging him on the court. “If you make this shot from right here,” Heeres told him, “you can be on the 8th-grade team.”

“Of course, I missed,” Brian lightheartedly says as he moves on to share about Ski Club and the many fun bus trips going to and from Bittersweet.

I don’t like to iron.” While ironing may not be at the top of his list, Brian includes it among other valuable skills he gained at ZCS. Growing plants from seed in Mr. Keatley’s greenhouse sparked an interest that’s flourished over the years. “Growing trees and plants continues to be a life-long interest of mine,” Brian says.

When Brian is not busy caring for patients at Zeeland Vision, he enjoys any kind of outdoor activity. “I even enjoy shoveling snow,” he says.

“Growing up, my dad used to take my brother and me fishing and hunting. Those remain passions today. I also enjoy gardening.

There’s just something magical about growing your own food from tiny little seeds and enjoying the harvest in late summer.” Weather is also something that piques Brian’s interest. He shares that he would have been a weatherman if he didn’t pursue optometry.

Naturally, Mrs. Zastrow’s home economics class holds memories for Brian, too. “One skill we had to learn was ironing,” he recalls. “I procrastinated until the very end. The last day I Brian and his wife, Michelle, live in Zeeland with was supposed to do it, I quickly got it done and their three young children. Their oldest now ended up getting a ‘C’ in ironing…to this day, attends the Young Fives program at ZCS.

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Teacher Spotlight Lynn Groothuis

“The world needs the beauty you create–whether it’s “I want to be an artist when I grow up!” one student cooking, gardening, painting, or sculpting. You were remarked to another. Their classmate, capturing created to create beautiful things.” the essence of Lynn’s heart and message for every student, replied, “But remember? You already are!

These words of wisdom come straight from the Do you mean that you just want to go pro?” heart of Lynn Groothuis, ZCS Art Program pioneer.

Lynn began teaching at Zeeland Christian straight Lynn thinks of creation as “God’s beautiful, artistic gift out of college in 1988, and she has shared her to us.” She loves to teach students that when they passion for creativity with countless students since. capture the essence of a part of creation on paper or When she started her career at ZCS, Lynn taught canvas, they are really giving love back to God. Lynn 4th and 5th grade for five years. Then in 1993, appreciates how art “keeps the flow of love moving.”

Lynn developed the art program, aspiring to build A painting of a flower or a summer scene isn’t limited a rigorous curriculum designed to engage students to a season but is something everyone can enjoy all in experiences so they could express themselves winter long. visually. If you’ve walked the halls of ZCS at any point over the years, you’ve likely caught a glimpse When Lynn reflects on her choice to teach at Zeeland of Lynn’s vision coming alive–beautiful displays of Christian, she recalls, “I chose ZCS because in the student art grace the walls in nearly every hallway. interview we all laughed a lot, and I knew I was going to love teaching with that group of people.” Years Lynn looks forward to teaching students about later, Lynn still enjoys her role. Asked about her French painter Henri Matisse as part of her favorite tradition or celebration at Zeeland Christian, curriculum. “I love to tell how, even though he was Lynn thoughtfully replies, “It’s not a tradition, per se, called a beast for painting with such loud colors, but I love the culture of embracing failure at ZCS. he stayed true to his art and himself,” Lynn says.

Within this mindset, the fertile soil of creativity gives “Matisse is considered the father of Fauvism (which way to enormous growth. I believe my students means beast in French). Later in life, Matisse could thrive because the message of taking a risk is not use his legs and was no longer able to paint. He consistent and celebrated.” reinvented himself as a cut paper artist and kept creating until his death. I love telling his inspirational “I look forward to the opportunity to engage students story and creating works in his style!” in creating every day,” Lynn shares. “I love making the content of learning rich with rigor and full of Lynn prioritizes her role to cultivate each child’s experience. It is such a joy to see students’ joy and identity as an artist. “Art class is simply training what watch them work to make something beautiful.” is already within every learner by our creator God,” Lynn enjoys collecting interesting driftwood as a fun she shares. With this in mind, Lynn recounts an art activity. She has made a rainbow trout, a heron, exchange between two lower-elementary students and a moose out of single pieces that just spoke to that she’d place “at the top of all teaching moments.” her–right off the beach. Lynn lives with her husband, John, and they have two grown sons and a daughterin-law. They are all avid golfers and love to hike and travel together.

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After 30 years of teaching, Cindy Arendsen continues to build a legacy of loving God, loving kids, and loving learning. In her time at Zeeland Christian, Cindy has taught preschool and kindergarten, and is currently teaching first grade. When asked what she looks forward to most about coming to work each day, she shares, “I love knowing that I have the opportunity each day to remind my students that they are a gift from God, that he loves them more than they can imagine, and that he can do anything through anyone.”

Cindy appreciates the opportunity to teach her classes Old Testament stories (especially Joseph, Moses, the exodus from Egypt, and Gideon) because they illustrate God’s power, his love and forgiveness for his people, and how he chooses to use “regular” people to fulfill his plan. With this in mind, Cindy also hopes to convey a simple but significant message to her students: that God created them for a purpose.

Teacher Spotlight Cindy Arendsen

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When Cindy is in the classroom, stand-out moments are those instances when a student “gets it.” Helping students to make connections and process ideas is a joy. “The smile on their face and the light in their eyes makes teaching worth it!” she says. Cindy also enjoys hearing her students sing in worship together, and she looks forward to all-school chapels when the whole student body celebrates God through songs like, “10,000 Reasons” and “Your Love Defends Me.” It’s powerful to hear children praising him and proclaiming his truths over each other together.

Outside of school, Cindy loves to garden, read, be outdoors, and spend time with family. Her husband, Dave, has also been very involved at ZCS over the years. Together, Cindy and Dave have four adult children who are all graduates of Zeeland Christian, along with two young granddaughters.

Teacher Spotlight Ran Tao Schlosser

by Cara Wickstra

Ran (pronounced “Ren”), or Tao Laoshi (Tah-ow Laow-shur), as known by her students, had a unique start to her teaching career at Zeeland Christian. She was able to experience nearly all of the Mandarin elementary classrooms in just two short years. When Ran first learned about the immersion program at ZCS, she inquired about an opening and was able to take a position right away. In her first year, she began as an aide in the Mandarin preschool and 4th/5thgrade classrooms and then finished the year by covering maternity leave for the 2nd/3rd-grade room.

The following year, Ran taught the 1st-grade class and assisted kindergarteners in the afternoon. As she got to know many Mandarin students and families, Ran’s two-year “tour” through each classroom was a fun introduction to the program.

Ran grew up in China in a small hydropower station village. When she went to college, she had a foreign teacher from America who showed a movie about Jesus, and that was Ran’s first introduction to Christianity. After that, she attended school in England and then moved to Shanghai. Despite the massive amount of people living in Shanghai, the Lord orchestrated Ran’s housing, and she found an apartment only one block away from her cousin. As they reconnected, Ran learned that her cousin had become a Christian; then, Ran received her first Bible.

After Shanghai, Ran came to the United States and

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stayed with a host family who was also Christian.

As Ran was deciding what to do for her future, she met a caring, Christian woman who prayed for her and eventually led her to Christ. It is incredible to look back now and see how the Lord pursued Ran over many years, preparing her heart to receive him.

Just as the Lord prepared Ran’s heart, he also prepares ours. Ran feels the Mandarin program at ZCS is training the hearts and minds of her students for the future, and she sees many benefits of learning Mandarin at such a young age.

Ran is intentional about teaching her students the importance of precision in their writing; she believes learning to pay attention to details early on is one of the many life-long benefits of the immersion program. Ran also recognizes China’s significance in the global market, and she is confident that learning the culture and language will benefit Mandarin students down the road.

Whether for future travel, business, or ministry, preparing students is at the heart of her work each day.

As the mom of three young children, Ran is a very kind and compassionate teacher. She feels it’s an honor to be a part of a child’s life in such a big way as she gets to know each student and discovers their unique learning style. Ran loves introducing students to different cultures and sharing how much God loves each of us. She enjoys the ability to use her command of Mandarin as she teaches.

When she’s not in the classroom, Ran treasures travel opportunities with her family and looks forward to exploring new places.

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# O U R Z C S S T O R Y

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REFLECTIONS: THOUGHTS FROM BOARD MEMBER

SHANDA SPRICK

in heaven right now, having completed his season of being an amputee here on earth a few years ago. I also love knowing this season of being apart from my dad I’m sitting in our window seat this afternoon. Though is just that: a season. Temporary. My older kids are this isn’t the most comfortable spot, it gives me the beginning to grasp this concept of seasons, especially best view of the falling snow. In just the past 45 when we help them have eyes to see. When we first minutes, the snow has changed shape and intensity attended an informational meeting at ZCS about more than five times. It’s incredible. Though winter immersion, the presenter showed a graph about kids can feel long, I know it is just a season. One season. By “liking” their language. There was a significant dip during the time this article is in print, there may not even be high school–a missing appreciation, so-to-speak, about snow on the ground, so today, I’m not going to miss learning the target language. My Mandarin kids are an opportunity to enjoy the view. currently in high school, and we see this dip regularly.

Framing their frustrations into “seasonal” language Years ago, I heard a speaker (I wish I could remember helps them see how God may use their command of who it was!) reflect about seasons in life. I’ve Mandarin for Kingdom work someday. Asking our kids contemplated this idea, which has helped me weather to share great memories about Mandarin encourages and enjoy different seasons I’ve experienced. Some of them as well, and there are tons–all evidence of God’s my seasons have been very short, like when I taught a goodness. Our Mandarin kids express gratitude for the week-long winterim class at Holland Christian or my program and the opportunities they have already had daughter’s basketball career. Others have either been because of it. long or felt long: school at home for three months, my son’s 19-day stay in the hospital, potty training, or Seasonal living helps us trust in the sovereignty of today being day nine of the ten-day Covid quarantine God. Perhaps he is allowing or sending something for my seventh-grader. I’m currently in a long season our way so we can bless others. Our first pregnancy of being married to Gary, and I’m hoping God allows it turned into a miscarriage. As awful and challenging as to continue much longer. it was to limp through that time, it led to conversations about adoption and gave us a sensitivity toward other Regarding my life at Zeeland Christian, I’m beginning families navigating the same rocky path. Today we have to grieve as two of my seasons come to an end. First, two adopted children and are legal guardians to our my time on the ZCS board concludes in June. I was 67-year-old “daughter.” appointed almost five years ago to complete a vacant term. God has taught me incredible lessons through I hope most of your seasonal living right now is so this experience: I’ve met new people, gained insights sweet. Mine is: time to work on writing a book, having into board work, grown in my appreciation for our high schoolers, everyone still living at home, excellent administration and staff, and learned to trust God teaching at our church, Zeeland Christian, opportunities more fully as I stepped into situations both exciting for my kids both in and out of school, a wonderful Bible and challenging. Thank you to those who approved study group, and so many more. My current challenging my nomination so many years ago– I’m grateful for seasons? Covid everything, riding with kids who are your trust. Second, I’m beginning to grieve the loss getting their driving hours, managing my time, and of ZCS as we are just a few years from being done as navigating newly discovered family food allergies are parents here. How can my baby be out of elementary among the few I’ll share. I know all these sweet and sour school?!? She was my guarantee of always having seasons are temporary: here today and gone tomorrow. someone little. (I jest…kind of.)

Someday I’ll say goodbye to ZCS as a parent and watch my kids take flight into their lives outside our home. I I believe seasons are God’s faithful way of reminding hope to laugh around our table with kids and grandkids us of his goodness, giving us hope, and preparing us sharing memories about Covid. And I’m hoping I’ll for the future. We are given hope in hard seasons someday enter a season of driving an orange car. Only by knowing that they’re temporary. I know someday my heavenly home is forever, and I’m so grateful God I will not receive an email about exposure to Covid is preparing it for me and readying me to live there at school. It will happen. I know my dad is running someday.

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From left to right: Noel, Shanda, Noel Furman, Garrison, Michael, Penny, Gary, Simon.

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A NOTE FROM PETER JENKINS, DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT What if parenting could be easier?

After two years of living through the unexpected, millions of people are working to regain or establish routines and disciplines to become the people they hope to be. The #1 book on Amazon in 2021 was Atomic Habits by James Clear. Clear suggests four “laws” to help people build habits: 1. Make it Obvious.

2. Make it Attractive. 3. Make it Easy. 4. Make it Satisfying. This got me thinking.

Within the third law, “Make it Easy,” Clear states that one of the easiest ways to develop a habit and become the person you want to be is to join a culture or community of people who are already engaging in the activity or lifestyle you want to adopt. If you want to start exercising regularly, make friends with people who do. If you want to be a more positive person, spend your time with people who are often full of gratitude.

As the father of two young girls ages five and two (and with a third baby girl on the way), my mind turns to applying this same principle to their lives. If I know, roughly, who I hope our daughters will become in life, my wife and I should do our best to create an environment in our home for our girls to grow in that way. When they are outside of our care, this should remain a priority.

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The culture of your child’s school impacts who they become. Children spend anywhere from 16,000 - 20,000 hours in school by the time they graduate high school–that’s over 20% of their wakeful hours (87,600 hours total) from age 3 - 18. Most parents I’ve asked agree that the influence of school on their children is an even higher percentage.

Raising children to be responsible adults is a privilege, a high calling, and exhausting! At Zeeland Christian School, we want to assist you in your responsibility to instruct your children in the Christian faith. We work hard every day to ensure the environment they’re learning in makes it second nature to become empathetic, knowledgeable, globally aware, loving, kind, a person of integrity, and much more.

The choice to enroll your child at Zeeland Christian is much more than an academic decision. It’s an investment in who you want your child to become. As they walk through the early stages of life, we want to be a source of guidance and encouragement and provide a culture where your child can more easily reach their fullest potential in this world and eternity as a child of God. How can we help? We’re here to answer your questions, prioritize your concerns, and come alongside your family in any way possible to provide the best fit and experience for your child. At ZCS, we recognize the potential influence school has on every student. We take our responsibility seriously to help shape your child(ren)’s future while honoring God and his purposes for their lives.

8th-grader Layla Geurink is well-loved by her teachers and peers alike. “She is the sweetest student,” Xu Laoshi shares. “She has a good relationship with her teachers and other classmates.”

When Layla reflects on what she appreciates about her time at Zeeland Christian, the sentiment is mutual. “One of the many things I love about ZCS is how much your teachers care about you,” Layla says. “They are always willing to help you and listen to what you have to say. They are always there for you and make class so much fun.”

If Layla could grow up to be like any one of her teachers, it would be Mrs. Postma. “Mrs. Postma is so kind and is always so thoughtful,” Layla offers.

“She makes class so much fun by connecting with everyone and is always so excited to teach us what she enjoys doing.” With hobbies including drawing and making things out of clay, it’s possible Layla has a future in art herself. Layla also enjoys running and participates in track each spring.

Outside of school, Layla loves spending time with family and friends and enjoys being outdoors. The oldest of four, she and her siblings are all students in the Mandarin program at ZCS.

In class, Xu Laoshi notices Layla’s commitment to learning and praises her hard work and dedication.

As she prepares to graduate in the spring, Layla notes some things that will stay with her long past 8th grade. “I love going to ZCS,” Layla reflects. “One thing I will always remember is our chapels. I like to sing, so I have enjoyed being a part of the worship team for middle school.”

“I will also always remember fun times with friends,” Layla adds. “I’m thankful for friends who are kind!”

A student in the Mandarin program, Layla has good memories of her experiences celebrating the Lunar New Year each year. “We get to have Chinese food as part of the celebration, which is so much fun,” she says.

Layla’s time in the Mandarin program has been meaningful to her. “Mandarin has been so fun to learn,” she shares. “I really enjoy being able to speak another language and being able to talk with people that also speak Mandarin. It has given me many opportunities to speak with people that I otherwise might not have.”

8th Grade Student Spotlight LAYLA

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THANK YOU!

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR DONORS FOR YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT TO ZEELAND CHRISTIAN SCHOOL! [Oct-Jan 2022] Jason and Laurie Adams Jeremy and Rachael Allen Eric and Rachel Anderle Tim and Dena Apotheker Alden and Marilyn Arendsen Earl and Lou Arendsen Gene and Mariann Arendsen Mike and Krista Arendsen Jose and Erin Armas Doug and Shelly Baas Mark and Beverly Baumann Steve and Bev Baumann Lorraine Becksfort Ford and Pat Berghorst Gary Bernfeld Jeff and Carrie Beyer Norma Bither David and Kimberly Blaker Alvin and Arlene Blauwkamp Randy and Bev Blauwkamp Terry and Linda Boerman Nick and Alisha Boeve William and Wilma Bogertman Nicki Bonczyk Delbert and Rosemarie Bos Ken and Lois Bosch Ken and Linda Bosma Luke and Kristin Bouman Steve and Vicki Bouman Tom and Teresa Bouwens John and Beth Bouws John and Bonnie Bouws Duane and Barb Bremer Geoff and Erin Bremer Craig and Deborah Brink Sheryl Brink Larry and Carol Brinks Rudy and Diane Broekhuis Richard and Joan Broersma Sherwin and Nancy Broersma Don and Maria Brouwer Jeff and Amanda Brouwer Lynn and Betty Brouwer Ryan and Jessica Brouwer Mike and Lori Brower Ross and Krista Brower Ross and Fran Brown Jim and Cheryl Buist Margaret Burns John and Barb Buteyn

David and Ruth Capestany Glenn and Susan Cherup Ouy Sean and Phan Hao Chov Emily Corbridge Bill Covert Colin and Jennifer Craig Joyce Dark Robb and Jodi Dawson Rick and Jan De Boer Larry and Sandra De Haan Eric and Nakisha De Jong John and Jan De Jonge Douglas and Sandra De Kock Carol De Korte Herp and Loie De Roo Marcus and Elyssa De Ruyter Chris and Pat De Vries Clayton and Kathy De Vries Dave and Barb De Vries Judy De Vries Justin and Stacey De Vries Mike and Mary De Vries Rick and Elly De Vries Jim and Lynae De Witt Marvin and Jerene De Witt Foundation John and Rachel De Young John and Rhonda De Young Debbie and Greg DeGraff Field Drew and Deb Deters Dustin and Stacy Deters Dorothy Deters Irene Deters Jo DeYoung Paul and Kathie Dieleman Brett and Robin Diepenhorst Kevin Dobreff Del and Vicki Dornbos Jeff and Erin Dornbos Dean and Jessica Dozeman Robert and Cindy Dozeman Howard and Evonne Driesenga Gladys Driy Cora Dykema Richard and Carla Dykema David and Barbara Dykhouse Joe and Heather Dykhuis Robert and Lorrie Dykhuis Kathryn Dykstra Sheldon and Lynn Dykstra Steve and Deb Dykstra

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Ben Edewaard Jim and Stacy Edewaard James and Anne Eldersveld Kathy Elhart Greg and Audrey Elkins Brent and Emily Ellens David and Mary Jane Ellens Ken and Machele Elzinga Peter and Laura Elzinga Jim and Rhonda Engelsman Mike and Susan Ensing Richard and Charlene Faber Bernie and Cheryl Feenstra Rod and Hazel Folkert Paul and Brenda Formsma Tim and Patty Fox Andrew and Darcy Frank Chad and Leah Geenen Chuck and Julie Geenen David and Linda Geerlings Justin and Andrea Genzink Mark and Donna Genzink Steve and Lois Gerritsma Ed and Mary Geskus Aric and Dana Geurink Joe and Meredith Geurink Derel and Cori Glashower Josh and Rochelle Glerum Wally Gosaynie Eric and Deb Gritter Gerrit and Jennifer Gritters John Gruessing Kevin and Kristen Hamilton Bob and Patti Harris Tim and Jill Harris George and Mary Heerema Jim and Linda Heeres Brian and Ann Hemmeke Linda Hemmeke Mike and Katie Hendricks Domingo and Ashley Hernandez John and Gret Heuvelman Bob and Laurie Hieftje Randal and Laura Hilbrand Brad and Elizabeth Hilton Marvin and Cristine Hinga Howard and Marianne Hoeksema Harris Hoezee Matt and Jen Holmes David and Elaine Holstege

THANK YOU!

Marlene Holstine Frank and Deb Hoogland Les Hoogland Tom and Jenny Hoort Ryan and Stephani Hop Scott and Libbey Horton Donald and Ruth Huisenga Bill and Natalie Huizenga J.C. Huizenga Keith and Deb Huizenga Rick and Deb Huizenga Ross and Laura Hunderman Doug and Mary-Jo Iverson John Jellema Peter and Beth Jenkins Alvin Jipping Richard and Karen Jipping Brendon and Rachel Johnson Bruce and Margie Johnson Rick and Jane Johnson Harley and Laura Jongekrijg Jim and Jan Jonker Tom and Laurie Joustra Paul and Linda Kalkman Steve and Deb Kamstra Aaron and Lynnae Kauffman Jason and Molly Kehrer Brent and Emily Kehrwecker Gary and Diane Kerber Aaron and April Kiekintveld David Kiekintveld Scott and Sally Kiekintveld Doug and Lisa Klamer Randy and Jane Klingenberg Dan and Maria Klompmaker Bill and Pam Knott Brad and Jill Koning Harold and Barbara Koning Paul and Jodi Koning Harv and Sandee Konynenbelt Stan and Jayne Konynenbelt Steve and Joanne Kooi Brian and Cathy Koop Jonathan and Betsy Koop Karen Kraal Steve and Rebecca Kraal Timothy and Juliet Kraal Mark and Janet Krommendyk Preston and Carol Krommendyk Steve and Ashley Krommendyk Larry and Rose Kruithof Leon and Betty Kruithof Ryan and Allison Kruithof

Brad and Rebecca Kuipers Gregory and Harriet Kuipers James and Sandy Kuipers Megan Kuipers Jeremy and Sarah Laarman Ryan and Kendra Laarman Dan and Melissa Lam Carl and Jody Lamar Dave and Mary Lamberts Dave and Lori Lamer Muriel Lamer Sherwyn and Melanie Lamer Steve and Kathy Langeland David and Dianne Langworthy Mike and Cara Larsen Jeff and Shelly Leys William and Marybeth Liszewski Howard and Judy Lubbers Michael and Emilee Lubbers Ronald and Sue Lucas John and Wanda Luurtsema Kristi Lynch Jeff and Beth Maat Dave and Jan Machiela John and Jan Machiela Elizabeth and Brent Malone Jerry and Shar Mannes Chris and Becky Marlink Tim and April McAboy Claudia McGowen Tim and Natalia McGowen Steve and Ashley Meade Jordan Meagher Gary and Jane Meyer Richard and Winky Meyer Ronald Meyer Thelma Meyer Randy and Lynae Meyers David Miller David and Angela Moelker Randy and Dana Moeller Mike and Karyl Morin Jamie and Wendy Morse Keith and Kim Mulder Keith and Sara Mulder Kevin Mulder Paul and Heather Mulder Ryan and Kimberly Mulder Marc and Tracy Nelesen Sam and Bethany Nichols Dave and Deb Nienhuis Vincente and Silvia Nunez Jason and Pam Nyhof Mark and Amanda Nyhof

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Paul and Joan Nykamp Phil and Kim Nykamp Terry and Kim Nyland Marcia O’Donnell Craig and Betsy Oosterhouse Jim and Liz Paauw Tim and Laura Paauw Seth and Kami Palmer Gloria Pelon Thelma Pelon Ben and Gretchen Petroelje Derek and Leah Petroelje Larry and Betty Petroelje Leah Petroelje Chuck and Sue Plockmeyer Mart and Mary Praamsma Marcia Pratt Mark and Kathy Pyle Paul and Nancy Pyle Joel and Joy Pyper Aaron and Sandra Raak Marianne and Mark Raitz Gordon Raterink Ken and Barb Rininger Kristi and Dale Rosema James and Bonnie Roskam Allen and Jeanne Rotman Mark Anthony and Laura Rozeboom Andrew and Sarah Rugg Scott and Anne Rush Jeff and Lisa Russcher Meredith Sal Philip and Tasha Saladin Wayne and Joyce Sall Pat and Jen Schafer Jeff and Kara Schipper Lynn and Gloria Schipper Andrew and Sarah Schippers Don and Ruth Schnakenberg Steve and Karen Scholten Kevin and Sharon Schonewill Jon and Leesa Schram Ken and Mary Schreur Travis and Corah Senik Bryan and Betsy Shafer Dave and Shirley Shafer Wade and Nancy Slagh Doug and Lori Slenk Jason and Lindsey Slenk Eric and Emily Sloterbeek Ben and Heather Smith Cody and Blair Smith Dustin and Brianne Smith Mark and Ann Sneller

Rog and Lois Sneller Erwin and Linda South Steve and Valerie Spoelhof Foundation Aaron and Christa Steenwyk James and Nancy Steenwyk Robert and Jane Steenwyk Bob and Nancy Steinbrecher Jared and Tiffany Stevens Katie Stewart Doug and Melissa Stob Rick and Sandy Stob Tim and Tiffany Stob Mark and Kelli Ten Haken Al and Mary Ter Haar Brenda Ter Horst Michael and Meribeth Ter Horst James and Kathy Terpstra Nick and Sarah Terpstra Pete and Ruth Terpstra Ron and Sherri Tibbe Gale and Catherine Tien Arlene Timmer Cal and Linda Timmer Jim and Sue Timmer Mark and Bonnie Timmer Benjamin Timmerman Dave and Wendy Timmerman Tom and Paula Tinholt Mike and Carrie Traver Apple Tsou Bill and Judy Van Appledorn Erik and Olivia Van Appledorn Johnathan and Brittany Van Byssum Kenneth and Lucille Van Dam Marc and Mary Van Dam Bill and Mary Ellen Van Dyk Sarah Van Dyk Steve and Kristi Van Dyk Bryan and Kaylin Van Dyke Larry and Sandy Van Dyke Wayne and Sharon Van Dyke Dale and Charlotte Van Haitsma John and Rose Van Haitsma Jim and Jo Van Huis Nick and Brittany Van Huis Kenton and Selena Van Klompenberg Ben and Joni Van Maastricht Howard and Julie Van Mersbergen Nancy Van Rhee Roger and Betty Van Wyk Joan Vanden Bosch Brian and Tammy Vanden Brink Steve and Stephanie Vanden Brink Robert Vander Lugt

Gregory and Julia Vander Veen Andy and Elizabeth Vander Zwaag Jim and Pam Vander Zwaag Melvin and Loie Vander Zwaag Matthew and Beth Vanderhyde Robert and Lindy Velderman Robert and Bonnie Velting Wilbert Venema Mark and Christina Vizithum Scott and Marcia Vlietstra Keith and Sue Volkers Adrian and Corrine Vredeveld Loren and Lisa Vredevoogd David and Linda Vugteveen Gary Wabeke Jerry and Gay Wallinga Mike and Julie Walters Randy Walters Jason and Heidi Watson Nate and Anna Weeber Jake and Linda Weeda Edward and Jane Westerbeke Mark and Tonya Westerbeke Wendi Whitaker Ben and Cara Wickstra Elizabeth Wierda Lucy Wierda James and Gail Wiersma Donald and Melissa Wire Deborah Witteveen Robert and Stephanie Witteveen Cessandra Wright Jeff and Joan Wyrick Thomas and Ruth Ysseldyke Chris and Alicia Zandstra Jack and Beth Zandstra Scott and Carla Zastrow Wanda Zee-Cheng Jim and Marilyn Zinger Roger and June Zoet Peter and Sue Zwyghuizen Doug and Vicki Zylstra

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Companies and Churches Advantage Marine Repair Ageless Autos Barber Ford, Inc. Bethany Christian Reformed Church Bethel Christian Reformed Church Carpet Bonanza Chase Hammond Golf Course CL Construction Connan, Inc. Drenthe Christian Reformed Church Flexpost Gebben’s Concrete Geenen Family Foundation Gentex Corporation Grassmid Transport Haven Christian Reformed Church Haworth, Inc. Herb and Dottie Keeler Family Foundation Howard Miller Company Hutt Trucking Company Integrity Landscaping JB Capital Management LLC Jean Marie’s Jeff VanHuis Real Estate Koele Godfrey Investment Group Landscape Design Services Mankato Area Foundation McKesson Foundation Mikalan Roofing, Inc. Niekerk Christian Reformed Church Noordeloos Christian Reformed Church North Street Christian Reformed Church OK Tire Stores Ottawa Smiles Dental Premier Freight Management Prince Foundation Proline Concrete Construction Raven Strategic Group, LLC Redmon Heating & Cooling Request Foods Smith Gas Liquids Company The Gerber Foundation Third Christian Reformed Church Town and Country Group Wells Fargo Westside Service Center Winding Creek Golf Club Zeeland Vision Services

IN MEMOR IAM

Jan Vollink Richard and Joan Broersma Sherwin and Nancy Broersma Margaret Burns Jo DeYoung Kathy Elhart Robert Vander Lugt Robert and Bonnie Velting David Bosch Ken and Lois Bosch Nick Leegwater Greg and Audrey Elkins

Irene Deters Eneka and Gary Stroven Steven and Kimberly Gruppen Margaret Van Huis Doug and Melissa Stob Jim Edewaard Al and Barb Dannenberg Robert and Dawn Walt Fredric J. Heidema, D.V.M. Bernard and Joyce Balder Ken and Ester Lemmen Richard Kerslake Jo De Young

Sally Meyer Randal and Laura Hilbrand Jamie and Wendy Morse Keith and Sue Volkers Scott and Carla Zastrow Alice Gruessing John Gruessing John and Anna Konynenbelt Marlene Holstine Jim Wabeke Rick and Jane Johnson

Donations July 2021-December 2021

Henry Scholten Karen Kraal Julie Liszewski William and Marybeth Liszewski Ann Pyle Dave and Shirley Shafer

Endowment (Memorial, General, Legacy) $310,794 Tuition Assistance $307,000 THRIVE $29,676

Ruth Schuiteman Jerry and Gay Wallinga

Tim Bosch $169,028

Joyce Brinkman Randy Walters

General Fund $226,613

Ed Slenk Gordon Raterink Thelma Meyer Doug and Lori Slenk Darrel and Jane Turner Ruth Slenk Chris and Pat De Vries John and Bonnie Bouws

As of December 2021 ZCS Endowment Fund Balance $7.86 Million

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ZCS Family Spotlight: The Hamilton Family “We all want our kids to thrive, but as the parents of three kids with medical and other special needs, we’d found it especially challenging to find a school environment in which they could reach their full potential. We were discouraged to the point of feeling helpless and hopeless at times. Zeeland Christian School has changed all of that!

Our kids are thriving, and we are filled with hope and joy knowing they are loved, celebrated, and honored for exactly who they are.”

When Kevin and Kristen Hamilton relocated to West Michigan with their family in the fall of 2020, they did so with their hopes set high on Zeeland Christian.

Previously, they’d called central New Jersey home for 14 years, but Michigan drew their attention as they searched for a better educational opportunity for their children. The Hamiltons are a family of six, with their two youngest children adopted from China.

Three of their four children have medical or other special needs, and Kevin and Kristen were exhausted from the constant fight and advocacy necessary to meet their family’s needs in the public school system.

COVID made this dynamic increasingly challenging, and they felt that something needed to change.

-Kevin and Kristen Hamilton

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“When we first learned about ZCS, it honestly seemed too good to be true,” Kristen shares. “We kept thinking, ‘Okay, what’s the catch here?’” Kristen continues, “Not only were inclusion and support services possible, and every child celebrated no matter their needs, but there was a Mandarin immersion program, a big community of adoptive families, a unique model of education that wasn’t legalistic or punitive but focused on the whole child and loving them well– and we could actually afford to send all the kids because of the lower cost of living!”

These factors led the Hamiltons to move three states away, and while they knew it was a risk, the hope of something better for their children seemed worth it. A year and a half later, life in West Michigan feels like God’s answer after a long season of discernment and prayer. In Kristen’s words: “ZCS has changed our lives in such a wonderful

way. When our daughter had major surgery out of state and had to miss two months of school, ZCS teachers, staff, and students surrounded her, and us, with tangible acts of love, care, concern, and prayer. We filled her hospital room with the signs and posters they’d made and got to share [what a special school she is part of when nurses noticed].

When [our daughter] was going through difficult pre-op procedures and later laying in the pediatric ICU hooked up to all kinds of machines with IV leads and tubes all over her body, she would quietly sing the songs she’d learned in Young Fives to bring herself comfort. I can hardly put into words what it meant to hear my little girl singing, “Jesus is my best friend; he’s always there for me,” amid such difficult circumstances.”

Kristen adds, “With three of our kids at ZCS, it has been a joy to see them grow in their confidence, understanding of God and His Word, and their friendships with classmates as they’ve come through

Back row: Kevin, Andrew (7th), Gabi (10th), Kristen Front row: James (4th) and Emily (K)

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this first year of transition. I have truly never seen a school that so wholeheartedly embraces inclusion.

It’s one thing to say it, but another thing to live it, and with three of our kids having needs–each one different–we truly tested that. But time and again, we’ve heard, “We’re so glad you’re here,” and we’re told positive things about our kids. We hear that we’re being prayed for, and we are never made to feel like a burden. One of our kids has been very resistant to church participation or connecting with us on God’s Word [at home]. But he is soaking up his Bible classes. He’s retaining Scripture, and most important of all, he’s surrounded by adults that affirm him and the unique way God has wired him.”

Kristen and Kevin appreciate the growth that they see in their children as they attend Zeeland Christian. “Through their experiences at ZCS, God is

connecting with the hearts of our children in unique ways…we see their understanding of Scripture growing and the Spirit using that to draw them closer to the Lord, affirming [God’s] love for them,” Kristen offers.

While school can never be a substitute for a parent’s responsibility to disciple their children, the Hamiltons acknowledge that their children will each spend over 15,000 hours apart from them in a school setting over their lifetime. “It is just an amazing opportunity for us to choose for [our children] to spend those hours with a team of people who are intentionally seeking to build them up in the Lord,” Kristen adds.

Now that the Hamiltons have settled into school at ZCS and life in a new state, they are taking

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“ZCS is so much more than a school. It’s a community of people who love Jesus, love children, and provide an excellent education in partnership with Christian parents. Their core commitment to an inclusive environment that celebrates children of all abilities while focusing on a holistic education that develops every student’s heart, mind, and spirit is simply unparalleled. We wish every child could experience a ZCS education–it is one of the biggest blessings we’ve experienced as a family!”

advantage of all that Michigan offers. They enjoy going on bike rides and heading out to Lake Michigan together as a family. This past summer, they ventured both north and south to appreciate Michigan’s beaches, and they look forward to exploring the rest of the state, including the U.P., as life permits. Local parks, Holland’s splash pad, and the Farmer’s Market are frequent stops for the Hamiltons, who also love to spend time on their back patio and around the fire pit with friends and neighbors. They live in North Holland with their black lab, Flash.

-Kevin and Kristen Hamilton

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ZCS Unified Basketball 2022

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IMMERSION AT ZCS

by Jodi Pierce If I had any artistic ability and could paint a picture of the identity of ZCS, I would want you to see Zhou Laoshi (Mr. Jo) walking up the hill laughing with a group of 7th-grade boys after reffing the soccer game…Maestra Raak cheering in Spanish as she coaches track and field…Maestra Raitz encouraging both her English and Spanish reading students…Mrs. Espendez greeting a visitor to the office in her native language…Maestra Rodriguez celebrating her home country of Cuba by sharing her traditions and food…Mr. Meyer leading the students in worship time…and so much more. It would be a colorful, vibrant painting.

Today, ZCS continues to help shape the identity of its students. Nearly every child is actively learning Spanish. Approximately 50% of our students are learning their third language, as all immersion students receive world language classes in the opposite language. 385 of our students spend most of their day interacting and learning in Spanish. 86 of our students are reading and writing in Chinese characters and speaking Mandarin Chinese in their homerooms. These numbers are something to celebrate! Our ZCS community has worked together to develop one of the most thriving trilingual schools in the United States– no small feat for a school in the middle of West Michigan. Beyond that, we get to integrate our faith into all areas. As our students walk the halls of ZCS, they are each growing in unique and amazing ways.

The positive impact of cultural diversity at Zeeland Christian is evident whether a child is in the English, Spanish, or Mandarin program; the presence of the other languages impacts every student. You can hear morning greetings in the hallways in a variety of languages. Teachers from twelve countries interact with students by walking the playground, coaching our sports teams, and George Bernard Shaw said, “Life isn’t about finding leading our students in chapel. Students can check yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” This is true books out of our library in Spanish, Mandarin about the identity of organizations as well. Being a Chinese, and English, and staff members share Christian school will always be the heart of Zeeland openly with students and colleagues about how Christian’s identity. Over the past 100+ years, though, God has led them to Michigan to teach at ZCS. our school has lived into its mission and expanded its The faith stories of our teachers, rooted in the identity. Thirty-three years ago, inclusive education array of cultures at ZCS, continue to shape our became a reality at ZCS, and we chose to live our school and our student body. Building relationships faith by including children of all abilities in the with people from other cultures is familiar and classroom. With the start of Spanish immersion 15 comfortable for our students. years ago, we refined our identity and became a bilingual school. The Mandarin immersion program A culture of diversity and relationship is the identity was born ten years ago, and ZCS became a trilingual of Zeeland Christian School; let’s continue to let it school.

Burn Bright! 灿燃 ¡Brilla Intensamente!

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