A message from HCS
During a recent Professional Learning Community meeting with staff, we asked teachers to think about the different communities they are a part of. They named communities such as their teaching teams, the HCS school community, church community, Bible studies, family, neighbors, etc. One teacher mentioned the larger community of Christian educators in our region.
Every October, we have the privilege of gathering with Christian educators from the Midwest to connect over our shared calling and grow as professionals. Last week, we gathered in Grand Rapids for this year’s conference. One of the most powerful parts of that experience was looking around the room and realizing that every person there (thousands of people!) shared a deep faith and calling. Opportunities for worship, collaboration, and learning from colleagues invited teachers into a space of encouragement and renewal for the work they’ve been called to do.
One thought from the conference that resonated with me was shared by speaker James K. A. Smith: “Things we do are doing something to us.” It’s a powerful reminder that the everyday practices, routines, and interactions in our classrooms are shaping who our students are becoming. Opportunities like this conference encourage us to reflect on our work as Christian educators and renew our commitment to intentionally nurturing the hearts and minds of our students.
Jen Rysdam
Director of Curriculum & Instruction
IN THIS NEWSLETTER
All-School News
Announcements, news and events for all HCS families.
Cookies
This week Friday morning students will have the opportunity to purchase freshly baked chocolate chip cookies for $.50 each (limit 2).
Moms in Prayer
On Friday the 23rd, join the Moms in Prayer who will be meeting in the conference room at the middle school building from 8:00-9:00 a.m. Please check in at the main office. We will be focused on praying for the teachers of the 5th – 8th graders, as well as the students in these grades. We can’t wait to gather and lift them up to the Lord. We’d love to see you there!
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Parent/Teacher Conferences are scheduled for November 10 & 12 for students in Young 5s – 8th Grade. An email was sent last week with instructions and a link to schedule your child(ren)’s conference(s). The deadline to sign up is October 28.
Long Term Sub Needed-1st Grade
We are looking for a long term sub for a first grade classroom from early January to late March. This is a full time position. Teaching experience is preferred and a background in special education would also be helpful. If you are interested in this opportunity, or know someone who is, please fill out this short application form. If you have questions, please reach out to Tricia Kiepert, elementary school principal, at tkiepert@4hcs.org.
Early Childhood News
Announcements, news and events for HCS preschool families.
Preschool Praise and Worship
Preschool parents are invited to join us for a special Coffee and Praise & Worship Time with our preschool classes. Enjoy coffee, fellowship, and a meaningful time of worship alongside your child. Mark your calendars for either Monday or Tuesday, November 23 or 24. More details to come!
Elementary School News
Announcements, news and events for families of elementary school students
Chapel
Elementary students will gather for chapel each week on Fridays from 10:05-10:30. This Friday, Ms. Brinks’ 4th grade class will lead the chapel. Parents are welcome to join us and may enter through the west gym lobby doors.
Coffee will be served in the west gym lobby before and after every chapel. Hot and iced coffee is available by donation (cash or card) with proceeds going to the Tuition Stabilization Fund. Enjoy some coffee and help support our school!
Fall Flannel Skating Party
Get ready to lace up your skates for a roller skating party at Tarry Hall for students in grades Young Fives through 4th grade and their parent or special friend. The Mother/Son skate will take place on Wednesday, November 4, from 6:15–8:15pm, and the Father/Daughter skate on Thursday, November 5, from 6:15–8:15pm.
The cost is $9 per skater, with no charge for non-skaters; skate rentals are $4, or you’re welcome to bring your own skates. Payment will be made at the door, and Tarry Hall accepts cash, credit card, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Snacks will be available for purchase at the concession stand. Accessible activities will be available for anyone who doesn’t want to skate. Flannel attire encouraged!
Please RSVP at this link if you plan to attend.
Middle School News
Announcements, news and events for families of Middle School students.
Chapel
Students and staff will gather for chapel from 7:55-8:25 AM in the south gym on Tuesdays and Fridays. Parents are welcome to join us!
- Friday, October 23 – Evamarie Eggebeen leading chapel
- Tuesday, October 27 – Breakfast Club chapel
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events for HCS families
Grandparents’ Day
We are excited to invite our grandparents and special friends to join us for our Grandparents’ Day celebration on Friday, October 30. For all the details about the event, please visit our website. To help us ensure a smooth visit, please provide your child(ren)’s teacher’s name and room number so that our guests can easily find them. We will have maps and helpful staff available to guide everyone. Looking forward to a wonderful celebration!
Due to limited space and parking we ask that parents refrain from attending the Grandparents’ Day events and chapel. We invite you to join us via livestream or watch the chapel at a later time. Thank you for your cooperation and for helping us create a wonderful experience for our students and their guests!
New this year, Grandparent Gear is available to order!
Community News
Community News for HCS families
Cross-train Volleyball
The Cross-train Volleyball League offers local 5-8th grade girls the opportunity to improve their volleyball skills in a ten week league. Experienced coaches facilitate fundamental skill development, position training, and team play in a faith-based environment. The league is coordinated by Hope Hoezee, Unity Christian Varsity Volleyball Assistant. Click HERE for registration information and a schedule.
Saturday Boys Basketball Camp
Unity Christian will be hosting a five-week program for boys in 4th-6th grades on Saturday mornings from November 7 through December 12. Each session will teach fundamental basketball skills and provide team competition.
Details and registration information can be found on the Unity Athletics website here: Boys Saturday Basketball 26-27
Unity Christian Musical
Unity Christian High School is proud to present the musical Frozen. Performances are scheduled for 7:00pm on November 12 and 13 and at 5:00pm on November 14. Performances will take place at the Hudsonville High School Auditorium on Allen Street. This is a show all ages will love! Tickets can be purchased HERE. You are able to pick your own seats and pay online.
Jenison Christian School’s Fall Arts & Crafts Fest + NEW! Little Makers Market
Grab a friend and come shop unique handmade art, jewelry, baked goods, gifts and more! And NEW this year, we are featuring a Little Makers Market where kids showcase and sell their crafts! Saturday, November 7th from 9am – 2pm at Jenison Christian School. Free Admission!
Important Dates
October 20 – Band/Orchestra/Choir Concert @ FH
October 28 – Limited busing PM
October 30 – End of First 9 Weeks
October 30 – Grandparents’ Day
November 6 – Report cards posted
November 10 & 12 – Y5-8th Parent/Teacher Conferences
November 11 – Limited busing PM
November 13 – No School
November 16-20 – MS Spiritual Emphasis Week
November 20 – Limited busing PM
November 25-27 – Thanksgiving Break (No school)
