HOME COMMUNICATOR
If you step into our classrooms during Bible time, you’ll likely see something remarkable—students with open Bibles, heads bent over the pages, pens in hand, and hearts eager to learn. Through our new Love God, Love Others Bible curriculum, our students aren’t just hearing Bible stories; they’re digging deeply into Scripture itself. They’re highlighting verses, taking notes in the margins, and discovering that the same God who was with His people in the Bible is present with us today. It’s incredible to watch them recognize that His promises are true—yesterday, today, and forever.
This hands-on approach to Scripture is helping God’s Word come alive. Students are engaging in meaningful conversations that push them to think deeply and apply what they’re learning. They’re exploring maps and images that place Biblical events in real places and times, helping them see that these aren’t distant stories but part of God’s unfolding plan for His people. Classrooms are filled with wonder, reflection, and joy as students connect the truths of Scripture to their own lives and experiences—truly living out our mission to challenge minds and lives for Christ.
Our teachers, too, are on this journey of discovery. As they prepare and teach each lesson, they are immersing themselves in God’s Word, often growing and learning alongside their students. Many have expressed how these lessons have deepened their faith and reignited their passion for Scripture. It’s been beautiful to see staff approaching Bible time not as a routine part of the day, but as sacred space—an opportunity to encounter God’s truth and share it with the next generation.
Together, we are witnessing something powerful: a school community united in learning to love God and love others through His Word. We’re watching faith take root, curiosity blossom, and hearts respond to the truth that God’s story is still being written in and through us. What a blessing to see the Spirit at work in our classrooms at HCS each day!
In Christ,
Jen Rysdam
Director of Curriculum & Instruction
SCHOOL-WIDE NEWS
No School for CEA Convention
There will be no school or Kids’ Corner for students on Thursday, October 23 and Friday, October 24 so that our teachers can participate in the Christian Educators Association Convention. The Administration Office will be closed both of these days.
Halloween
The policy on Halloween at HCS is that we do nothing to support it in classroom activities or decorations.
Report Cards
The first nine-week marking period will end on Wednesday, October 22. Report cards will be posted to RenWeb on Friday, October 31 for students in 1st-8th grade. If you have questions about accessing this information through RenWeb, please contact Lane Lems – llems@4hcs.org.
Limited Busing
On Friday, October 31 HPS busing will be limited. The following buses will run their regular route:
- Bus 64 AM/Bus 57 PM (Route 57)
- Bus 78 AM/Bus 9 PM (Route 78)
- Bus 76
If your HPS bus number is not listed, you will need to provide your own transportation to and from school on the 31st. Unity bus routes will run as normal.
New Faith + Learning Event – Building Blocks of Faith with Dr. Robert J. Keeley
Join us Thursday, November 6, for a meaningful evening with Dr. Robert J. Keeley, local educator and author of Dear Parent: A Guide for Family Faith Formation. Dr. Keeley will share his practical and hope-filled “Building Blocks of Faith” framework—a tool currently used by HCS teachers to help students grow in Christ across all areas of learning. This event kicks off a new HCS event series that explores topics of faith + learning as we seek to partner together to challenge minds and lives for Christ. The event is free; attendees will receive a complimentary copy of Dear Parent while supplies last! Learn more about the event and RSVP online.
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Parent/Teacher Conferences are scheduled for November 11 & 13 for students in Young 5s – 8th Grade. Parents should have received an email with instructions and a link to sign up for a conference with your student’s homeroom teacher – any additional teachers your child might have will communicate with the homeroom teacher. Childcare will be available at the elementary school during your conference time. School will be in session regular hours on both conference days. There will be no school for 3 School through 8th Grade on Friday, November 14. Kids’ Corner will also be closed on that day.
Yearbook Order
Now is the time to order the HCS yearbook for your student! Orders are taken now for the all-color yearbook that students will receive in May 2026. The cost is $30 per yearbook and you must purchase it online through YearbookOrderCenter.com. Our school order number is 3469. Please note that you must order by Sunday, November 30.
ELEMENTARY NEWS
Elementary Hot Lunch
Information on the Elementary Hot Lunch program provided by JenHud Food Service can be found on the JenHud Food Service website. Make deposits and monitor your account through the Family Portal. If you have questions please contact the food service at foodservice@hpseagles.net.
Lost and Found
Our elementary lost and found is filling up! Please remind your child(ren) to check out these items in the hall by the lower elementary office to see if anything belongs to them.
MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS
Chapel
Students and staff will gather for chapel from 7:55-8:25 AM in the south gym on Tuesday and Friday. Parents are welcome to join us!
- Tuesday, October 21 – Family Discipleship Groups
- Tuesday, October 28 – Mary Jane Geers -Moms In Prayer leading chapel.
Hot Lunch
There will be no Hot lunch this week Wednesday due to the Fall Fitness Feat.
6th-8th Band/Choir/Orchestra Concert
The Band/Choir/Orchestra concert is Tonight, October 21 at 7:00pm at Fair Haven Church. Students need to arrive by 6:40 and wear their concert uniforms (Black on the bottom and solid white top). We are excited to share with friends and family all the work the students have done during the beginning weeks of school. Please join us for a wonderful evening of music!
Fall Fitness Feat
We’re excited to host our annual Fall Fitness Feat this Wednesday, October 22 at 11:30am! Parents are invited to come cheer on the students along the race course. To ensure the safety of all participants, we ask that you park at Hughes Park or along the road leading up to the park. Please do not park in the school parking lot or front drive. The event will take place rain or shine, so please make sure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather and comes prepared for the day’s activities.
7th Grade Winter Camp Chaperone Sign-up
Our 7th grade students will be heading off to Winter Camp Wednesday, January 28-Friday January 30. An email was sent to all 7th grade parents with information about being a chaperone. If you are interested, please complete the form linked in the email. Chaperone sign-ups are due Wednesday, October 22. If you have any questions, please call the middle school office.
Conferences
Parent/Teacher conferences will take place on November 11 & 13. Parents should have received an email to sign up for a conference with your child’s home room teacher. The following part-time teachers will be available for conferences on Tuesday, November 11 on a drop-in basis, no appointment required:
Brenna Brouwer-Counselor Sara Jager- Orchestra
Bri Buikema-Foundations Jen Large-PE
Brian Knot-Band Jenn Velzen-5/6 Soar
COMMUNITY NEWS
Cross-train Volleyball
The Cross-train Volleyball League offers local 5-8th grade girls the opportunity to improve their volleyball skills in a nine week league. Experienced coaches facilitate fundamental skill development, position training, and team play in a faith-based environment. The format includes weekly practices and four match dates. The league is coordinated by Hope Hoezee, Unity Christian Varsity Volleyball Assistant. Registration opens November 1st via Signup Genius (participants must register via Signup Genius first and then send in paperwork). The league runs January 20-March 28, evaluations are January 6 and 8. Space is limited. Click HERE for information on registration times, registration links, and a schedule. Email crosstrainvb@gmail.com with questions.
Unity Middle School Swim Team
Unity Christian High School is excited to sponsor a Middle School Girls Swim Team for all EOCS students in grades 6–8 this fall! The season runs from October 22 through December 9, 2025, and provides a great opportunity for girls to develop their swimming skills, build friendships, and compete in meets. Details and registration information can be found on the Unity Athletics website here: MS Swim 2025. For any questions, email athletics@unitychristian.org.
Preschool Playgroup
Ridgewood CRC is hosting a free preschool/toddler play group on Monday mornings from October 6 through November 17. Come and enjoy snacks, coffee, a bounce house, and lots of space to run and play from 9:30 – 10:30 on Mondays. No need to RSVP, just come when you can!
