HOME COMMUNICATOR
I often say it’s unfortunate that middle school students get a bad rap. While sometimes the stereotypes are earned, other times they are unfair. A few weeks ago I witnessed an example of the latter.
As part of the HCS Auction, I offered to buy the son/daughter of the winning bidder lunch four times this spring. “Fast Food Friday” sold for a lot of money (way too much in my opinion!). A few weeks ago I printed a Chick-fil-A menu and connected with the students to ask what they wanted to eat. One student deliberated over his choice for 15 minutes, debating what to order. I could tell that this was a monumental decision as he struggled with what to choose. He ended up selecting the chicken sandwich, with fries and a Coke, and excitedly walked away as the bell rang to end lunch.
Sitting in my office the next morning, he walked in and said that he wasn’t going to be at school on Friday. He then wondered if he could give his food to someone else. I told him it wasn’t a big deal to reschedule and that I can bring him something next week instead. Thinking for a few seconds he responded with “no…that’s okay. Can you just give the food to another 6th grader instead?” The student he named wasn’t a close friend of his, and this classmate has undergone major surgeries over the last few months.
“And Mr. Achterhof”, he continued, “please don’t tell him that I’m doing this. I think he’d like it and he doesn’t have to know that it’s me”. Thanking him for his generosity, I told him how proud I was of what he did. As he walked out, I sat in my chair stunned. A 6th-grade boy, giving his Chick-fil-A to another student, and not wanting to take any credit for it.
May the actions of a middle schooler be an encouragement to you today. If you have a middle schooler at home, don’t let the disrespect and emotions of this time in their life overshadow the moments when they quietly “give away their lunch” to their classmate.
Chris Achterhof
Middle School Principal
ALL-SCHOOL NEWS
Staff Appreciation Week
This week is staff appreciation week! Since we certainly appreciate our HCS Teachers and Staff, the Parents’ Club Board would like to invite all HCS parents and students to express their appreciation for them this week! How do you know someone appreciates you… A sincere word? A thoughtful note? A helping hand? A beautiful bouquet? A fun gift? Let’s show our fabulous staff our sincere appreciation this week!
Parent Volunteering for Next School Year
Thank you for all you’ve done for the school this year! Volunteering not only helps our school, but it helps families get to know one another and creates a sense of family within our school community! On Friday, April 26 an email was sent to all parents/guardians explaining the volunteer requirements, sign-up process and a link to the Sign Up Genius Form for the 2024-25 school year! With hundreds of volunteer opportunities available, you are sure to find something that you will enjoy! TONIGHT, May 7 at 7:00 PM, volunteering opportunities will unlock for signups. Contact the Hudsonville Christian Parents’ Club Board with questions! pcb@4hcs.org
2024-2025 Enrollment – don’t miss out!
If you intend to partner with HCS in Christian education next school year, please take the time to fill out the needed information to ensure enrollment for 2024-2025. Parents of currently enrolled Kindergarten – 7th grade students (those going into 1st – 8th grade for the 2024-2025 school year) please complete this online enrollment form 2024-25 Enrollment Form. If you would prefer to complete a paper copy of the enrollment and emergency contact forms, please let Linda Kellar in the admin office know (lkellar@4hcs.org) and forms will be mailed to you. Enrollment (online and paper) forms and enrollment fees were due Friday, April 26. Thank you for your partnership in Christian education as we strive to challenge minds and lives for Christ!
2024-2025 HCS Theme T-Shirt Order
This fall all students in 3 School – 5th Grade will receive an HCS t-shirt to wear for field trips, chapels and other activities no need to order! 6th -8th grade students are given the option to order one free of charge and parents, if you want to order a theme t-shirt for yourself, there is a cost of $6.00 each. To order a 2024-2025 HCS Theme T-Shirt for a 6th, 7th or 8th grade student or for yourself, fill out this form by May 30.
Piano Needed
As we begin moving into the new addition at the Middle School, we are looking for a piano to be added to the new choir room. If you have a piano that is in good shape that you are looking to get rid of, please contact Anna Schreur (aschreur@4hcs.org) with details.
Job Opportunities
- 7th Grade Science – The Middle School at Hudsonville Christian School is seeking applicants for a full-time 7th-grade teacher with primary teaching responsibilities of Bible and Science for the 2024-2025 school year. Interested applicants should have a Bachelor’s degree in education with a Science certification. We are looking for someone who is passionate about working with middle schoolers, is team-oriented, and has a strong love for our Lord and Savior. If you or someone you know are interested in joining our dedicated and passionate staff, please complete the application form. If you have any questions regarding this opportunity, please reach out to middle school principal, Mr. Chris Achterhof, at cachterhof@4hcs.org.
- Music Teacher and Accompanist – The Middle School is looking for someone to teach two General Music classes next school year. Classes will be taught every other day after lunch (approximately 12:15-2:40) to 6th and 8th graders. This is a part time position. The Middle School is also looking for someone to accompany the choirs during their rehearsals throughout the year. Hours are flexible, but will likely be 8-10 hours a week. This person is passionate about music and can support choir director Anna Schreur by playing the piano and helping teach our choir students. If you are interested in, or know of someone who is, please contact middle school principal, Mr. Chris Achterhof, at cachterhof@4hcs.org
- Kids’ Corner Aide – Hudsonville Christian School is seeking applicants for Kids’ Corner child care aides for the 2024-2025 school year. Interested applicants must have a love for God and His children and enjoy working on a team. We are looking for additional people during the school day from 10:30-12:30pm and 10:30-2:30pm . If you are interested in the position, please reach out to Julie Moes at jmoes@4hcs.org.
HCS Walkathon – Pledges due TOMORROW
We are thankful for the HCS Community working together to raise $168,442.00 at the Walkathon! We want to remind you that all remaining Walkathon pledges are due Wednesday, May 8. Please remember to return your pledge form, envelope, and all money due. Thank you again for your tremendous support. Prizes earned for those who have turned in their pledge forms will be coming home within the next week.
Scrap Metal Drive
A Scrap Metal Drive will be held this Friday and Saturday, May 10 and May 11, to benefit the Education Foundations of Unity Christian High School and Hudsonville Christian School. The drive will be held at the Arrowaste Storage Lot, 1600 Chicago Dr, Jenison from 1pm-8pm on Friday and 8am-2pm on Saturday.
Moms in Prayer
The Moms in Prayer group believes that through prayer God releases His power on behalf of our children and school. Our faith is in God who hears and answers our prayers. This week Friday we will be meeting in the preschool lounge at the elementary building, 8:00-9:00 a.m. Check in at the main office and they will direct you where to go. We will be focused on praying for the amazing education support staff this week. See you there!
Camp Crazee Fun 2024
Mr. Los, our elementary PE teacher, invites all students entering 3rd – 8th grade to participate in Camp Crazee Fun June 3-6. Forms have been handed out to students and the form is also available HERE. Invite your friends and neighbors to join too! Camp is located in our West gym and includes all kinds of great group games. Please turn the completed registration form in at the office by May 31. Any questions email Mr. Los at – dlos@4hcs.org
Summer Hiking Trips – last week to sign up
If you are interested in going on either the Manistee or UP hikes this summer, please go to this link where you will find more information and can sign up. This is the last week to sign up.
ELEMENTARY NEWS
Chapel
All elementary students will gather in the west gym for chapel each Friday from 10:00-10:25 AM. Parents are welcome to join us and may enter through the west gym lobby doors.
Elementary Hot Lunch
The menu as well as other information on the Elementary Hot Lunch Program provided by JenHud Food Service can be found on the JenHud Food Service website.
5th Grade Students Visit the Middle School
On Tuesday, May 14 the current 5th grade students will be headed over to the Middle School to attend chapel and see what the Middle School is all about! They will also meet with the 6th grade teachers and be given a tour of the building.
Incoming 5th & 6th Grade Students/Parents Hot Lunch Survey
In Middle School, hot lunch is offered one day a week, on Wednesdays, beginning on September 18th. This is an optional opportunity for your child to purchase pizza, Chick Fil A, and Mr Burger Please look for a schedule at the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year. A very important part of ‘how’ we make hot lunch work is student surveys on what they will and will not purchase. NEW THIS YEAR- Entering 5th and 6th grade students must complete this survey with their parents. A paper copy is available that can be filled out and returned to the middle school office or emailed to Kim Racey at kracey10@gmail.com. Please complete this survey even if you do not plan to participate in hot lunch. Forms must be filled out or returned by MAY 30, 2024.
Lost and Found
Our elementary lost and found is bursting with items. 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. Parents please check out the lost and found when you are at school. All unclaimed items will be donated to REVIVE at the end of the school year.
Summer Tutoring
A list of teachers that are available for summer tutoring can be found on our website.
MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS
Chapel
Students and staff gather in the south gym for chapel each Tuesday & Thursday from 7:55-8:25 AM. Parents are welcome to join us! If you would like to view the Middle School chapels at a later time, you can also find recordings on our Vimeo channel- Chapel.
- Laura Mast leading chapel – Tuesday, May 7.
- Devon Brinks leading chapel – Thursday, May 9.
Hot Lunch
Hot lunch this week Wednesday will be DJ’s Pizza $2.50/slice (Ham/Pepperoni) Pop and chips are sold for $.50 each. The full menu/schedule is listed on our website.
Donuts
Donuts will be sold at break this Friday for $1.50!
8th grade Final Two Week schedule
An email was sent out yesterday to all 8th grade parents with detailed information regarding the final weeks of school for our 8th grade students. If you have any questions or concerns please contact the Middle School office or 8th grade teachers.
Current 6th Grade Students
Just a reminder, there are additional immunizations required for incoming 7th grade students prior to starting 7th grade next year. An email with additional information including which immunizations are needed was sent out last week. We wanted to give you a heads up so that you can keep this in mind when scheduling your child’s future appointments. Contact the Middle School office with any questions 616-379-0338.
Faces and Our Culture Program
Our school has been part of an amazing cultural exchange program for Guatemalan students for years, and we’re excited to keep it going! Faces And Our Cultures provides Guatemalan students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in our community for eight enriching weeks. Throughout the years, our campus has welcomed some Guatemalan students, many of whom have created a special bond with their host families. To become cultural ambassadors, participants undergo a thorough selection process and extensive preparation throughout the year. Each child will be matched with a student close in age and same gender. The host family provides homestay for 8 weeks, making them part of the routine, activities, rules, curfews, house chores as another member of the family. Hudsonville Christian provides lunches, school materials, and school-related activities. For those interested in learning more about the Faces program, please register here for more information and join us for an in-person informational meeting with Sandy Cardona, Program Coordinator scheduled for:
- Date: Monday, May 20th
- Time: 10:30 a.m.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Unity Christian Youth Football for Grades 3 – 8
Registration for Unity Christian Youth Football is now open! We will have 3rd/4th grade team(s), 5th/6th grade team(s), a 7th grade team, and an 8th grade team. Practices for 3rd-6th grades will begin on August 12 and grades 7&8 will begin on August 19. To plan accurately for the number of teams we will have in the fall, we ask that you register your player by June 1. For more information and to register online, click HERE. Feel free to contact Unity’s Athletic Office at 669-1820 orathletics@unitychristian.org with any questions you may have!
Unity Christian Musical Theater Camp
Musical Theater Camp will take place at Unity Christian High School June 3-6 from 3-5pm for 5th – 8th grade guys and girls! Learn musical songs and how to sing in parts while being expressive, acting and blocking skills that will help you in future Unity auditions and productions, and common dance moves from Unity and Broadway shows. Sign up on Unity’s website. Registration is open until May 17. Payment can be made online via credit or debit card. No prior musical or theater experience required!
Unity Christian Summer Sports Camps
Registration for Unity’s Summer Sports Camps for students ages 3 – 12th grade is now open! The registration link and schedule of camps can be found at unitychristianathletics.org under “Camps & Clinics”. Please contact Unity’s Athletic Office at 669-1820 or athletics@unitychristian.org with any questions you may have!
- Register between April 10 – May 8 – Receive a 15% multi camp discount on four or more camp registrations and can pay by check/cash (due May 15) or credit card.
- Register between May 9 – June 5 – Only credit card payment accepted.
- Register June 6 or after – $10 late registration fee and only credit card payment accepted.
- Please register your child in the grade they will be entering in fall of 2024.
New this Summer!
- Boys Volleyball Camp from July 15-18 for 6th-8th graders (12 – 2 p.m.) and 9th – 12th graders (2:30 – 4:30 p.m.).
- Speed & Agility Camp for boys and girls in grades 6 – 8. The camp will meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from June 11 – July 25 (excluding July 2 & 4; boys meet from 9-10 a.m., girls from 10-11 a.m.). In this camp participants will work on improving their ability to run faster and change direction. Workouts will consist of sprinting, plyometrics (jumping), strength training, and reaction drills. Participants will take a pre and post-test in the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, broad jump, and pro agility, with results showing their improvement as they prepare for sports in fall 2024.
Vacation Bible School – Fair Haven Church
We can’t wait to CELEBRATE with you at VBS this Summer!! We will learn more about Jesus through games, crafts, Bible stories and more! Register your party peeps grades PreK through 5th for an experience they’ll never forget on July 15-18 6:30-8:30PM.
Arts Camp at Evergreen Ministries!
Elementary students entering 2nd Grade to 5th Grade are invited to join Evergreen Ministries on July 29th through August 1st to explore “Under the Sea: the Jonah experience! Arts Camp is designed to explore our creative God through a variety of artistic opportunities, including visual, performing and culinary arts. Camp will run from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm (please pack a lunch) from Monday, July 29th through Thursday, August 1st and is offered free of charge. Registration opens June 1st – see egm.org under the Youth tab for registration and class information. Contact chris@egm.org for more details or to get involved in this great community event – volunteers are welcome!
Calvin University Football Camp
Calvin University Football is hosting its first ever youth football camp! Come learn the basic fundamentals of football, general movement skills and have a ton of fun! There are different sessions correlating to your age group. Please click HERE for more details. Direct all questions to Ben.Dixon@Calvin.edu
