The Bell - May 2021

ZCS 8TH GRADE PLAY PG. 6-7

THE BELL FAITH INTEGRATED LEARNING PG. 16-17

INTERVIEW WITH TIM PAAUW PG. 10-11 #OURZCSSTORY PG. 12-13

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STAFF Editor: PETER JENKINS Direction: PETER JENKINS Art Direction: SELENA VAN KLOMPENBERG Photography: SELENA VAN KLOMPENBERG Graphic Designer: SELENA VAN KLOMPENBERG Writers: CARA WICKSTRA, KENDRA GONTJES, TIM MCABOY, GEOFF BREMER Editor: TOM JOUSTRA

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. CHUCK COMMERET, MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL; ZCS GLOBAL STACY DETERS, DIR. OF SUPPORT SERVICES PETER JENKINS, DIR. OF ADVANCEMENT TIM MCABOY, HEAD OF SCHOOL KARLY MORIN, DIR. OF LEARNING INNOVATION TRACY NELESEN, OFFICE MANAGER JODI PIERCE, DIRECTOR OF IMMERSION NANCY PYLE, PRESCHOOL DIRECTOR SHERRI TIBBE, ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL

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A NOTE FROM OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.”

1 Corinthians 9:24-25, NIV

alongside one another to help us all cross the finish line together. This is not the race we would have chosen, but it is the race that God has placed before us, and I’ve been honored to be in a community with others who have “run in such a way as to get the prize.”

This September will mark 20 years for me as a runner. My goals as a runner have varied in the different seasons of life. Some years, simply getting across the finish line was a victory, no matter how slow. Other years a specific time goal or distance motivated me to get out the door each day. But my favorite seasons have been when I’ve had the opportunity to train with and help a friend trying to achieve a specific goal.

The amazing faculty and staff, who give every bit of themselves in a normal year, have run their race by somehow finding a way to give even more for the good of our children. Our children have run the race with their hard work and great attitudes. One veteran teacher told me her students thanked God in prayer each morning for the opportunity to be together with their friends and teachers. Our parents have run the race in their encouragement of the faculty and staff, coming around them in ways I’ve never seen before, supporting them with intentional words of encouragement, heartfelt notes, and many fantastic meals and treats. They’ve done this even as they’ve faced the challenges that parenting in this unique year has brought.

A few years ago, I joined a friend in the final 10 miles of his marathon to help him reach his goal of qualifying for the Boston Marathon. The first few miles together, I didn’t think he even needed me, as his pace was strong and his attitude confident. But in the 26th mile, he began staring at the ground as he ran and said, “I can’t do this.” I shouted 1 Corinthians 9:24 at him, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? RUN IN SUCH A WAY AS TO GET THE PRIZE!” He lifted up his head, fixed his eyes on the finish line ahead, and met his goal. No running accomplishment of my own could ever compare to the joy of helping a friend get across the finish line. His joy was my joy.

The encouragement I’ve found in this year is not in getting myself through the challenges of this year, but in watching how our community has come

“Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training.” The race of this school year is almost over.

But the next race is coming and as Christians, we will “run in such a way to get the prize.” To do this, we must continually pursue health through healthy habits and rhythms. This summer, make your health and the health of your family priority - your spiritual, physical, and mental health. If we do this, we will run together and we will “get a crown that will last forever.”

Burn Bright!

Tim McAboy Head of School

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ZCS 8TH GRADE PLAY

By; Kendra Gontjes, ZCS Choir & Music Teacher

On March 6 and 7, the eighth grade graduating class of 2020 slipped in their final performance of “Charlotte’s Web” before the world shut down.

Come 2021, planning for another play at ZCS proved to be more difficult than it had been in past years because of COVID restrictions that were constantly changing and the fear that at any point the school could go remote, which would make a performance nearly impossible. To give the students their best chance at success, the play was moved from its traditional performance dates in the first week of March, to the last weekend in April.

It was decided that there would be two shorter plays instead of one longer one, in an effort to keep the kids moving and to shorten the amount of time they would be near each other for social distancing.

The first play was “The Journey of Little Red.” This play was about the classic tale of Little Red Riding Hood, but with a few comedic twists along the way.

The second was “The Trial of Goldilocks” which was about a court case in which Goldilocks was being tried for breaking and entering into the Three Bears’ home.

school decided that it was safe to have a live audience.

The plays were held in the ZCS gym which was broken into “pods” of six chairs that were distanced six feet apart from each other. In the end, each of the three performances were sold out.

Throughout the whole process, the eighth graders were flexible, respectful, and encouraging. It was so beautiful to see peers working together with such grace and love as they offered advice to one another, practiced lines with each other, and encouraged one another.

They gave each performance their all and were often reminded that their talents were a gift from God and were meant to give glory to Him. In a year where so much had been taken away, it was beautiful to see students using their talents to honor each other and the Lord.

This was a daunting task because it now meant there needed to be two stage sets, two sets of costumes, two sets of props, two casts... basically double of everything. When the auditions came along, the directors were elated at the amount of students who were interested in both the cast and the crew. Everyone was just so excited and determined to make this happen and to be a part of something special. In fact, when the directors proposed the idea of the cast members being a part of both shows, students’ hands shot up. Even knowing that this would double their rehearsal time and lines to memorize, the students were eager to volunteer. In the end, nearly every member of the cast was a part of both plays.

As the performances loomed near, the elephant in the room was whether or not the cast would ever be able to perform for a live audience. While livestreaming was always an option, there is nothing like performing for a real audience and the directors prayed that the students would get this chance.

After reading through the latest restrictions and many conversations with the administration, the

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PETER: Betsy, thank you for taking the time to talk with me today. I know you are itching to get started in your role as elementary principal and you’ve even helped us out with some family tours already. Many in our community already know you in some capacity but, there are still many who do not, so tell us about yourself and your family.

BETSY KOOP: You’re right, Peter, I’m so eager to get started as elementary principal at ZCS and to work alongside ZCS teachers, students, and families.

I am a Christ-follower who is constantly awed by God’s expansive love and grace. I am naturally an encourager, learner, extrovert, and optimist. I am married to Jonathan, who is incredibly innovative and makes life an adventure every day.

We have four incredibly sweet kids. Our oldest son is in first grade Mandarin immersion at ZCS and we have three-yearold triplets who will begin at Creation Ridge next fall. We also had a son who passed away five years ago shortly after birth, and that experience was profoundly impactful on our faith, life, and perspective. Not a day goes by in which I’m not amazed and awed by the four loud, hilarious and joyful children we get to parent and by the sheer honor of that opportunity!

My story began right here in Zeeland where I was born and raised. I attended ZCS from preschool through 8th grade. After graduating from Holland Christian High School I went to Hope College and loved studying education and Spanish and spending time overseas. After college, I moved

to Central America and taught in Tegucigalpa, Honduras for two years. I love to travel and learn from people around the world, and that longerterm experience is one for which I am forever grateful. I eventually came back to the U.S., went to graduate school, taught Spanish Immersion at ZCS, served as an Instructional Specialist at add.a.lingua, and served on the ZCS School Board. My husband and I have been partners at Engedi Church for over a decade.

PETER: Tell us about your faith journey.

I’ve seen your faith in action and as I wrote the press release to announce your hire and I could see how it influenced the career decisions you have made. But tell us about the early years of your faith and how those years are still influencing who you are today.

BETSY: It is so powerful to stop at any given point in life and look back at how our faith has been shaped, isn’t it? I am deeply grateful to have been handed, and I use that term intentionally, the opportunity to develop an incredibly PETER: We value laughter and fun solid faith foundation since before I at ZCS. I know you do as well. What can remember. Between my parents, are some of the ways you have incorporated humor and fun into your grandparents, Christian school teachers, and youth group leaders, I was educational experiences and how do you want to see that continue at ZCS? surrounded by role models who cared for me and instilled in me an awe of BETSY: Yes! As a teacher, I may or may God, a conviction to follow and believe in Him, and a desire to care for others. not have been known to dress up like Ms. Frizzle (Magic School Bus, anyone?!) ZCS was a big part of that experience. and a large variety of random made-up characters who assisted in reaching my The solid faith foundation I was handed instructional goals. I mean, everything not only showed me the beauty of faith but taught me to wonder and is more fun in costume, right? In fact, seek truth. That’s why I’m so passionate I do recall my principal popping in for about Christian education. The Truth of an impromptu classroom visit while I was alternating between two strangely- God and His Word are instilled deeply from the youngest ages, and we also dressed characters for a math lesson and realizing it is way less embarrassing learn to wrestle, ask questions, and wonder together. The faith foundation to act silly in front of students than we pass along to children eventually adults! becomes their own in a very real way.

As educators we want kids to experience a deep sense of belonging in the classroom community and engagement in learning. Laughter is instrumental in that! Taking instruction seriously and ensuring it is rigorous does not mean taking out the fun. In fact, it often means the exact opposite!

The same goes for teachers and staff members. We want to continue to cultivate a school culture in which everyone feels a deep sense of belonging, engagement in their work, and fun!

And I love people and am continually brought to my knees when I consider God’s heart for people: for the least, the last, and the lost. The fact that he sent his very own Son to live out the good news on earth and redeem humanity is mind-boggling. It is an absolute joy to do whatever little bit I can to bring honor to Him and allow His expansive love to burn more brightly in the world.

An Interview with Betsy Koop 8

Betsy Koop ‘98 is the next elementary principal for Zeeland Christian School. She chatted with Peter Jenkins, Dir. of Advancement on this new role, how God has led her to this point, and what her hopes are for the future of elementary learning at ZCS.

PETER: You will have four kids enrolled at ZCS in the fall along with nieces, and nephews - and you are a thirdgeneration ZCS graduate. How does that motivate and influence you as you think about leading elementary at Zeeland Christian School?

BETSY: What inspires and fuels me most is to consider the impact the life of each child will make on the world over time. God has a plan and purpose for every single student, and it is an incredible honor and responsibility we have as educators to influence each student’s academic, social/emotional, and spiritual journey in such a profound way. I feel so grateful to be able to do this within the context of ZCS because I believe so deeply in its mission, leadership, and teachers. There’s no question about it, ZCS teachers are heroes. They work tirelessly and care so deeply about students’ spiritual, academic, and social-emotional growth.

My vision is that ZCS is a place in which every student and teacher is inspired, equipped, and empowered to flourish both academically and spiritually. I pray daily that we as leaders will effectively support teachers so they can be their very best for each and every student. As we continue to prioritize academic rigor, relevance, and results for every unique learner, we will be known throughout our community and beyond for the academic preparedness of our students and their social/emotional flourishing and sense of belonging. In the same way, my prayer is that ZCS will continue to pioneer authentic and intentional Spiritual formation for both teachers and students. The truth of Scripture and the life Jesus lived will sink so deeply into the hearts of the next generation as they wonder, ask questions, and grow, and I pray that these truths will be evidenced by their love for God, others, and the world.

PETER: Betsy, thank you again for taking the time to chat today, and as we often say when we end our conversations with each other, Burn Bright and let’s go!

BETSY: Burn Bright and let’s go!

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Interview with Tim Paauw

Tim Paauw is the next middle school principal for Zeeland Christian School.

He chatted with Peter Jenkins, Dir. of Advancement on this new role and how God has shaped his journey to this point.

PETER: Tim, it has been life-giving and encouraging getting to know you a little bit better over the last month or so. Thank you for taking the time to chat with me today. First off, tell us about you and your family.

what God was calling my heart toward professionally and I enrolled in the Education program and have never been filled with more joy than where that has led me.

After college, I was blessed to get a job teaching 4th grade at Ada Christian School where I student-taught.

Ada Christian School was where I really became passionate about Inclusion in our Christian Schools.

I had two students that had Down-Syndrome that I grew up on the West Side of Grand Rapids with taught me a lot about life, one of them eventually was four siblings. My dad is a nutrition support doctor at my flower girl at our wedding. During my second year Spectrum Health and my mom served as a nurse for there, I met a beautiful student-teacher across the many years, so all four of my siblings have become hall, Laura Gelderloos, who I eventually married. Our nurses, nurse practitioners, or doctors. I am afraid of even getting a flu shot (but still get one every year), so I wedding had a choir that was filled with students from knew right away I was the oddball in our family who was 4th and 5th grade and a get-away school bus for our vehicle. not going into a medical career.

TIM PAAUW: Thanks, Peter. I feel the same way about you and everyone I’ve had the pleasure to spend time with at ZCS. It’s a special place.

After seven years of teaching, I accepted the opportunity to become the principal at Jenison Christian School. One month after accepting that role, we learned we were going to have twins! Kathryn and Nolan are now ten years old and time has flown by.

I attended Calvin College after high school and wasn’t quite sure what I was going to pursue as my career when I made that choice. After working my first summer as a Camp Roger counselor, I realized clearly 10

Early on as parents we noticed different progressions between Kathryn and Nolan and learned Nolan is a beautiful autistic boy who is non-verbal. Our younger son Evan is now six years old and is also an incredibly unique and bright autistic boy who is non-verbal.

I have now had the privilege of leading Jenison Christian School for the past eleven years and have seen our eighth-grade class grow since they were in 3’s preschool, what a blessing! Our family attends Westend CRC where my wife is on the children’s ministry staff.

My greatest hope is that as a middle school community (students and staff), we get comfy valuing the power of prayer for others and outwardly changing our typical “How are you?” conversation starters to a more powerful, “How can I pray for you today? What has been the hardest part of your week and what is one thing we should give thanks for?”

Prayer is a tool that is meant to build community, heal wounded hearts and minds, and grows empathy when it is intentionally a focus.

I will also aim to show both students and staff that they are my highest priority by being available for them as an active listener and encourager. Also, Zeeland Christian Middle School is blessed with a very gifted Mental Health Team and I cannot wait to collaborate with them on student needs and lean into their recommendations and guidance as we recognize needs both individually and as a school community.

Peter: Tell us about your faith journey.

TIM: My parents have been integral in shining Christ’s light in my life and giving me the opportunity to know His love in my own life. We grew up attending churches with a Reformed theology where I have fallen in love with the first Q&A in the Heidelberg Catechism and know Jesus IS my only comfort in all aspects of life and the promise that death has lost its sting on me.

PETER: People should check out your feature in the Calvin Spark about the non-profit you co-founded with your dad. What else can you tell us about yourself that will help others connect with you?

I believe God’s two greatest gifts are said often in the New Testament, “Grace to you and Peace from God our father…” My former executive coach and friend, Jack Postma, once pointed these gifts out to me and reminded me of them often as he closed each of our sessions with a prayer and then say, “Tim, may you experience God’s greatest gifts this week of Grace and Peace.” Paul wrote this intentionally as a combination of the Greek word “Grace”/joy (charis) and the Roman word “Peace” (šālôm) to show that God’s love is not exclusive to one group but rather extended for BOTH Jews and Gentiles, for all people.

TIM: Our family LOVES to be outdoors. Often throughout a year, we can be found hiking along one of Ottawa County’s park trails, spending time swimming in a lake or pool, and visiting the U.P. of Michigan to explore that beautiful part of our state. I LOVE Diet Coke and have learned Mrs. Zastrow shares that favorite but I may have a little rivalry growing with Mrs. Roskamp on this same topic. My dad grew up in California and my grandma still lives out there, so I am a big San Francisco 49ers, Giants, and Oakland A’s fan. I will always enjoy trips to visit my relatives out in California as that whole state is an adventure waiting to happen with every trip. I also enjoy going to professional hockey games and enjoy cheering on the Griffins and Red Wings as a relaxing way to have fun with friends. I was at the last Red Wings game in Detroit just days before our state was shut down due to COVID-19.

PETER: You will be entering your leadership role coming off of the most challenging year schools have faced in our lifetime. The mental health of our students, parents, and teachers will be at the forefront of our efforts. As you think about leading Zeeland Christian Middle School next year and beyond, what are your hopes and visions?

TIM: Wow. What a question filled with truth and holding one of the highest values of truth as we walk together into the upcoming year of school. I have seen the increased levels of anxiety and depression, not just in students but also in staff and parents, throughout the course of this pandemic. We need to first aim to embrace that this mental health is a real need, so I am glad you are asking this question. We have heard the words “Self-care” often since the start of this pandemic, but I often wonder if we have all struggled to know or may have forgotten what that looks like as time continues on.

PETER: Tim, thank you again for taking the time to chat today. Our middle school is in great hands!

TIM: I have always loved ZCS because of the school’s courage to take risks and try new things. I am forever grateful to ZCS for pioneering the Inclusion efforts for our Christian schools. Both of my sons have autism and are non-verbal. They are able to access Christ-centered education thanks to the incredible vision and efforts that started in the ZCS community and still burns brightly today!

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

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A LETTER FROM OUR BOARD PRESIDENT Greeting ZCS Family,

We also want to take the opportunity to say thank you to you, the society members, for entrusting Zeeland Christian with the education and spiritual growth of your child/children. We thank you for walking this uncertain road with us and demonstrating the kindness and love of our good Father. You have been respectful and understanding when situations require immediate change, and we are so very thankful for your continued support. We are indeed better together.

Amidst a school year unlike any other, I have never been prouder to be a ZCS parent, supporter, and board member. We have experienced unprecedented resilience and grace from the students, innovation and inspiration from the teachers, and encouragement and ingenuity from you as parents and guardians. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, thank you.

We celebrate what God has done throughout this school year. In the beginning of the 2020-2021 school year, we prayed collectively as a board and staff that we would be able to be in-person as many days as possible. We knew our students learned best in this environment, and it provided much needed relationship and social interaction. We learned from the trials of 2020 that in-person school is indeed a gift from the Lord and it is never to be taken for granted again! We humbly praise the Lord for allowing Zeeland Christian school to be in-person EVERYDAY thus far. Join us in praising Him!

As a Board of Trustees, we take seriously our role of advancing the gospel mission of Jesus Christ through the value and mission of ZCS. It is an honor to partner with you as we spread the hope and light of Christ in our community and beyond. May we all continue to burn bright.

On behalf of the Board, Geoff Bremer ZCS Board President

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Q+A with Doug ’97 and Melissa Stob Members Since 2020 Q. Why is including ZCS in your planned giving important to you?

Our parents taught us the importance of generosity, and we want to model it for our children.

We believe in the mission of ZCS, and as I’ve served on the Endowment Committee at ZCS, I see how vital a solid financial foundation is for the sustainability of ZCS’s mission.

Q. Why is growing the ZCS endowment a priority for you?

ZCS has had such a positive impact on our kids and our family that we want to do what we can to make sure other families can access a Christian education at ZCS. Giving to the ZCS Endowment Fund allows us to be a part of that for generations to come.

What would you encourage other families to do if they are considering this?

I (Doug) have been a part of children and grandchildren witnessing the generosity of their parents or grandparents when an estate plan is carried out. The impact is noticeable and powerful. No one likes to think about those moments, but they make a lasting impression when people are purposeful.

The Zeeland Christian School Endowment Fund is a collection of charitable donations that have been combined and invested.

The primary source of funding is through wills, trusts, and adding ZCS as a beneficiary to retirement accounts.

The current fund balance is over $6.9 million.

A portion of the income from the invested fund is paid back to Zeeland Christian to offset the cost of tuition. Over time, the Endowment Fund will continue to grow, providing more money for the school to use to keep tuition costs down.

For more info about the Standing Stone Society, please email Peter Jenkins at pjenkins@zcs.org

The Zeeland Christian Endowment Fund was established in 1984 and has already paid over $3 million to ZCS! Please consider adding ZCS to your estate plan to leave a legacy of generosity and make a forever impact on students’ lives.

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FAITH INTEGRATING WITH LEARNING Maestra Duran, 2nd Grade Teacher The culture of my class is built on faith and on knowledge of and obedience to the Word. My passion is to arrive at the heart of the child while teaching different subjects throughout the day. We talk about how to show the love of Christ while we do math, social studies, and reading, as well as in Bible class.

One day I received bad news from my home country.

I was not able to contain my emotions, and one of my students suggested to the class that they, the students, should pray for me. They did so, and I felt much better afterward. The kids have learned that prayer is the first response to any trouble.

Mrs. Malone, 5th Grade Teacher During devotions, we were going through the book of Psalm and the importance of talking to God about our feelings NO matter how we are feeling. God loves when we lay our heart on him and talk to him about our feelings. So, I shared that when I was in college, our family had a tragic accident (my cousin was about 2yrs old and she was run over and passed away) and this absolutely broke my family. And we talked about how there are many different steps to the grieving process and one that really caught me off guard was when I went from sad to mad at God for this happening.

I talked with the class how I talked with my mom about this because I felt so guilty and not right for being mad at God and she told me that it was okay! I couldn’t believe it! She told me that just like parents love their children no matter when they get mad or happy or sad, God loves us even more....no matter the feeling. I talked with the class about how my mom went on to tell me that I need to share these feelings with God because He loves when we talk to him and that when we are feeling mad or angry, that he is the only one that can help us get through those feelings.

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Maestra Nunez, 5th Grade Teacher During Culture & Language today the students wrote a small paragraph in their blog about a cultural phrase that Spanish speakers use: “De bien nacidos es ser agradecidos” which means “how grateful it is to be born”. Most of the students understand how thankful they are for their parents to have them in this Christian School to learn about God.

Maestra Zondervan, Kindergarten Teacher My husband, Doug, was diagnosed with a rare disease on June 28, 2019. Even though this was extremely hard news to receive, we knew we were not alone. We have the God of Israel on our side.

He has been at the forefront of our hearts and tongues ever since then, sharing this truth with each other, and with our family and friends. Shortly after Doug’s diagnosis, the 2019-2020 school year began. As me and my students were learning our second Bible verse of the school year (“I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”

Genesis 28:15), I taught my kids the meaning of this promise from the bottom of my heart. God was impressing the true meaning of this promise to His people, and to me, on my heart and mind while I was teaching His little ones.

The theme of that school year, ‘Send Me’, spoke loudly to our ears as we let God lead the way in this new chapter of life, knowing that HE is the One sending us, and that HE would be the One leading us, persevering with us, and rescuing us throughout this journey.

Mr. Schonewill, Music & Band Teacher This week we’re having a discussion with our 5th graders about how being a Jesus follower intersects with them being a music consumer (listener). How does our faith affect our music choices?

Couldn’t do this (as openly and honestly) anywhere other than a Christian school.

Mrs. Walters, School/Home Collaborative During our Bible lesson in our class, we talked about how Mary and Joseph trusted God to lead them when the angel told Joseph to take his family to Egypt. We remembered before the birth of Jesus, then the angel appeared first to Mary and then to Joseph, they were told, “Do not be afraid”. When they left for Egypt, they also needed to trust God and not be afraid.

Students shared specific ways they too needed to trust God in very real and personal ways.

They sometimes were afraid, but know that they can trust God. One student shared, “When my mom was sick, I needed to go to the bus stop by myself”. I was afraid but trusted God to be with me. Students are growing in their faith and trust in God by encouraging each other and sharing faith their own faith stories.

Mr. Hutt, 5th Grade Teacher Yesterday I read a Fountas & Pinnell book about animal adaptations with one of my students.

After we were done with the formal assessment I took the time to marvel with my student at how God had perfectly and uniquely made each of these animals in such a way that they would be able to survive.

Ms. Miller, P.E. Teacher As a PE teacher, I love getting the chance to talk about how we are beautifully and wonderfully made! Recently, I had the opportunity to explain why God makes our bodies sweat (to cool ourselves). “Can you imagine if we just kept getting warmer and warmer?” Then we talked about how He gave us the ability and responsibility to help our bodies cool down and recover (by drinking water).

Mrs. Roskamp, 8th Grade Teacher During social studies class after an 8th-grade student presented a current event on the division in our county, we had a great discussion. We ended up discussing what we thought Jesus would say about the situation. The kids were very wise in their responses. It was a great time to step away from an issue and look at it from an eternal and Christian perspective.

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THANK YOU!

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR DONORS FOR YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT TO ZEELAND CHRISTIAN SCHOOL! [FEB. - APRIL] Jason and Laurie Adams Betty Alia Jeremy and Rachael Allen Donald and Cynthia Anderson Del and Muriel Arendsen Earl and Lou Arendsen Gene and Mariann Arendsen Sally Ashley Douglas Aukeman Karin Baker Lori Balow Chad and Sue Bartels Roger and Brenda Bauer Donna Bautel Ronald and Valerie Beatty Len and Elly Berghoef Howard and Lavonne Blacquiere Alvin and Arlene Blauwkamp Kenneth and Sharon Boerman William and Wilma Bogertman Ken and Lois Bosch Tim Bosch Ken and Linda Bosma Kenneth and Josephine Bott Steve and Vicki Bouman Tom and Teresa Bouwens Larry and Carol Brinks Lynn and Betty Brouwer Ryan and Jessica Brouwer Phyllis Brummel Bill and Linda Clegg Eleanor Coddington Colin and Jennifer Craig Laura and Glen Cutrer Donna Czarnecki Michael and Meaghan Daleski Gary and Connie De Haan Paul and Marcia De Kleine Wayne and Betty De Kleine Carol De Korte Jan De Maagd Marcus and Elyssa De Ruyter Dave and Barb De Vries William and Sonya De Witt Evert and Irene De Wyn Jacqueline Donajowski Jere Doyle Sharon Dryfhout Joe and Heather Dykhuis Arlene Dykstra Jim and Stacy Edewaard Randy and Erin Elenbaas

David and Mary Jane Ellens Benson Family Hoffman Family Jacobs Family Larsen Family Murphy Family James and Ann Florip Rod and Hazel Folkert Paul and Brenda Formsma Brian and Marlys Geerlings Richard and Phyllis Genschaw Justin and Andrea Genzink Steve and Lois Gerritsma Joe and Meredith Geurink Derel and Cori Glashower Eric and Deb Gritter Dawn Groen John Gruessing Kevin and Kristen Hamilton George and Mary Heerema Jim and Linda Heeres Harris Hoezee Gerald Holmes Matt Holmes Doug and Sandy Holtrop Michael and Sarah Homant Suzanne Homant Christina Hug Ross and Laura Hunderman Stephanie Ihnat Benjamin Jendrick Peter and Beth Jenkins Richard and Karen Jipping Brendon and Rachel Johnson Herman and Thelma Johnson Rick and Jane Johnson Aaron and Lynnae Kauffman Brent and Emily Kehrwecker Gladys Kemnitz Jackie Kennedy Scott and Sally Kiekintveld Wilma Klamer Ken and Nancee Kleinheksel Shirley Klingenberg Randy and Jane Klingenberg Tim and Vicki Klynstra Mary Jean Kolk Steve and Linda Konyndyk Steve and Joanne Kooi Jonathan and Betsy Koop John and Julie Kowalski Matt Krawczak 18

Brad and Rebecca Kuipers James and Sandy Kuipers Art and Sharon La Brecque Ryan and Kendra Laarman Mike LaMarre Jim and Flossie Lampen David and Dianne Langworthy Mike and Cara Larsen Tiffany Leuthold Howard and Judy Lubbers Curtis and Jamie Lucas Elizabeth and Brent Malone James and Betty Masters Tim and April McAboy Chris and Julie McCoy Natalia McGowen Larry and Ruth Meringa David and Kelli Meyer William and Nancy Mischley David and Angela Moelker Mike and Karyl Morin Audra Morse Keith and Sara Mulder Bob and Sheryl Mulder Dave and Leanne Muma Preston and Shirley Nagelkirk Russ and Emily Neher Phil and Lori Nelesen Garret and Florence Nieuwenhuis Elmer and Leona Nyhof Terry and Kim Nyland Seth O’Donnell Shannon O’Donnell Kathryn Osterbeek Betty Overbeek Kathryn Overbeek Harris and Jane Overway Jim and Liz Paauw Gloria Pelon Jamie Plummer Bill and Corky Potvin Ronald and Kathleen Prell Dave Przeslowski Paul and Nancy Pyle Joel and Joy Pyper Gordon Raterink Donald and Beth Reinders David Rieger Philip and Tasha Saladin Sid and Rose Scheerhorn Robert and Sheila Schippers Ken and Mary Schreur

THANK YOU!

Dennis Schultz Robert Scott Bryan and Betsy Shafer Jacklyn Shea Joseph and Machelle Shelton Martha Sherman Ed and Ruth Slenk Eric and Emily Sloterbeek Scott and Susan Sluiter Cody and Blair Smith Dustin and Brianne Smith Patricia Smith Ronald and Valerie Snoeyink Eileen and Hugh Spence Gary and Shanda Sprick Doug and Melissa Stob Steven and Shawn Straley Jordan and Nikol Taylor Gary TenHarmsel James and Jane Ter Horst Michael and Meribeth Ter Horst Gerrit and Robin Ter Laan Pete and Ruth Terpstra Terry and Barbara Thomas Gerard and Donna Timmer Kerry and Vickie Toner Joe Treffers Kenneth and Lucille Van Dam Dean and Jane Van Ostenberg Theron and Janice Van Rhee Roger and Betty Van Wyk Brent and Linda Vande Wege Fred and Carol VanDenBosch Rose Vander Vliet Brad and Jenny Vander Zwaag Robert and Lindy Velderman David and Nancy Ver Merris Arie and Nancy Visser Marv and Von Visser James and Judith Vivian Jodi Vivian Adrian and Corrine Vredeveld Amanda Wagenmaker Thomas and Linda Wagenmaker Bill and Judy Walker Keith and Joyce Wallace Jerry and Gay Wallinga John and Diane Walters Jake and Linda Weeda Marilyn Westenbroek Edward and Jane Westerbeke Wendi Whitaker Warren and Norma Wierda David Wikaryasz Wayne Wildschut Jan Williams Mary and Ross Witteveen

Ross and Mary Beth Witteveen Darlene Wojton Dr. Randall and Linda Wolthuis Glenn Wyngarden CR Yockey Jason and Betsy Young Chris and Alicia Zandstra Scott and Carla Zastrow Jim and Marilyn Zinger Roger and June Zoet Ed and Joyce Zylstra

CHURCHES & BUSINESSES Alpena Community College Anlaan Corporation Bauer Christian Reformed Church Holland Heights Christian Reformed Integrity Landscaping Noordeloos Christian Reformed Church North Street Christian Reformed Church Pinnacle Mold and Machine INC Steelcase Foundation The Gerber Foundation TLF

IN MEMORIAM Gladys Blacquiere Sally Ashley Howard and Lavonne Blacquiere Benjamin Jendrick Rick and Jane Johnson Larry and Ruth Meringa Russ and Emily Neher Harris and Jane Overway Sid and Rose Scheerhorn Gary TenHarmsel Fred and Carol VanDenBosch Wayne Wildschut Mary and Ross Witteveen Ross and Mary Beth Witteveen Lucy Blauwkamp Pete and Ruth Terpstra Dorothy Brummel Del and Muriel Arendsen Harris Hoezee Kathryn Osterbeek Carol Dykstra Lynn and Betty Brouwer Tim and Maria De Jong Paul and Marcia De Kleine Wayne and Betty De Kleine Mike Morren Arie and Nancy Visser Doug Groen Dawn Groen

Doug and Sandy Holtrop Gordon Raterink Glenn Wyngarden John Klingenberg Shirley Klingenberg John Morsink Betty Overbeek

Matt Okkema Lester and Evelyn Beimers Kenneth and Sharon Boerman Evert and Irene De Wyn Mary Jean Kolk Garret and Florence Nieuwenhuis Donald and Beth Reinders Dean and Jane Van Ostenberg David and Nancy Ver Merris Ruth Schuiteman Jerry and Gay Wallinga Shirley Ter Horst TLF Phyllis Brummel Jim and Stacy Edewaard Steve and Linda Konyndyk Brad and Rebecca Kuipers James and Jane Ter Horst Dr. Randall and Linda Wolthuis Joan Treffers Joe Treffers

Alice Gruessing John Gruessing Erma Kalmink Larry and Carol Brinks George and Mary Heerema 19

Eunice Voetberg Louis and Jan De Maagd William and Sonya De Witt Roger and June Zoet

Mandarin Achievement Advanced Fluency!

By: Cara Wickstra, ZCS Parent

Zeeland Christian School would like to officially congratulate two 8th grade students on their exciting achievements.

Students Ellie Brower and Noel Sprick are the first to obtain Level 7 - Advanced Fluency in Mandarin! Noel and Ellie will be the second 8th-grade class to graduate ZCS from Mandarin immersion. It is very exciting to see these students who were among the pioneers of the Mandarin program reach this level of fluency considering the difficulty of the language. Jodi Pierce, Immersion Director at ZCS, is inspired as she looks at the future of the Mandarin program, “We are encouraged to see the results of years of hard work on the part of the teachers, students, and families. It is exciting to know that we are reaching what we always hoped was possible, and we anticipate further success in the coming years as we are continually refining and improving how we do immersion at Zeeland Christian.”

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The Mandarin immersion teachers are also excited.

Alex Zhou, 6th and 7th-grade teacher, shares, “I am so happy for them! They are both very talented language learners, and their dedication helped them reach their goals.” He notes that they both have good participation in class and have the courage to try new Chinese words and phrases. He believes this achievement brings hope and a new challenge to other students in the program as well.

Eva Xu, 8th-grade teacher, shares about her time with Ellie and Noel. “Ellie is accountable, responsible, and takes schoolwork seriously. She often finishes the assignment fast and with good quality, sometimes even well beyond my expectations. She makes smart decisions, admits mistakes, and listens to opportunities to improve.” Eva continues, “Noel is such a sweetheart. She always looks for ways to be helpful in the classroom and when she senses that someone is having a bad day, she finds a way to cheer them up. She is also very conscientious and shows excellent effort and care with daily work. She is willing to spend time after school or on weekends to work on schoolwork because she wants to be great at it.” Both girls are unique in their personalities yet share the common thread of a strong work ethic and determination.

Noel shares her excitement about learning mandarin at ZCS. “I really like being able to speak in Mandarin.

It is unique, different, and cool being able to know three languages already.” She sees a very promising future and knows that wherever God leads her, He can use her Mandarin skills to be a blessing. She shares a story about a time her family worked at Camp Roger and she was able to help a girl from China who didn’t understand English. Noel was excited as she put her Mandarin skills to use and helped the girl understand the different events and activities around camp. You never know when this special skill will be useful, but there’s no doubt that her opportunities are multiplied as a result of her hard work at ZCS. Noel has also appreciated the role her teachers have played in her path to success. Each one, from kindergarten to 8th grade, challenged and encouraged her in unique ways.

comfortable being herself when she is with them. They have developed a strong bond over the years. When asked about the achievement, she shared her strategy for Mandarin and other aspects of life. She says, “If you aim for higher than you think you can get, then you’ll fall back on a good spot. So, aim as high as you can and if you fall back you’ll still end up on a good note.” Ellie has learned so much about the Chinese culture that she would never have known otherwise. She recommends the Mandarin program for anyone who is interested and sees it as a very valuable opportunity.

At Zeeland Christian beginning in third grade, immersion students take the STAMP test to gauge the growth of the individual and use the data to make changes to curriculum and teaching strategies. During the years of Kindergarten to 5th grade, students in immersion move through the stages of language acquisition from beginner to novice to intermediate. In middle school, the goal is for students to be at a high intermediate (Level 6) moving into the Advanced level in some areas. Previously, we have only been able to see the growth of the Spanish program so Ellie and Noel’s results are the first in the Mandarin program to score in the Advanced Level. Jodi explains, “Until you see it happen, you always wonder if it is really possible - especially with the difficulty of the language.”

She continues, “Mandarin scores are trending upward as we refine our instruction and curriculum each year so we have no doubt that we will continue to see students testing in the Advanced Level in Mandarin in the coming years just as we do in Spanish.” Zeeland Christian continues to pave the way as the only Christian-based Mandarin immersion program in the Midwest.

Speaking with Ellie, we see a glimpse of how meaningful her time in Mandarin immersion has been at ZCS. She feels like her classmates and teachers are a “family at school” and feels the most

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ENDOWMENT 2021 How do we keep ZCS from becoming unaffordable for most?

Add the ZCS Endowment Fund as a beneficiary of your estate. *NEW* Attorney Haans Mulder has generously offered to provide a Probate Avoidance Estate Plan for only $1,000 to anyone who names ZCS as a beneficiary.

The ZCS Endowment Champions and others in our community are willing to pay the $1,000 to anyone who includes ZCS as a beneficiary of at least 5% or $25,000. From now until June 30, 2021. Do not miss out on this!

*NEW* For $25,000, establish a named scholarship fund to help make ZCS accessible for students in specific circumstances within your passions.

Make a NOW gift to the ZCS Endowment Fund to have a NOW and FOREVER impact offsetting tuition. zcs.org/support

SAVE THE DATE: Attorney Haans Mulder will be holding an estate plan workshop for ZCS Society Members (parents, grandparents, alumni, donors) ONLY on Tuesday, May 11, at 7 PM and Thursday, May 13, at 12 PM via ZOOM. If you are interested in attending, please email Lois Gerritsma, Advancement Assistant (lgerritsma@zcs.org) for more information.