March 22 Home Communicator –This week highlights a little history lesson about Hudsonville Christian School. I recognize that this lead sentence may have already turned some readers away, but I think the remaining readers may find the following information helpful and useful. The historical lessons of HCS are helpful because they can identify a few foundational aspects of our school and why it operates the way that it does. Individuals who are not familiar with Hudsonville Christian School often refer to us as a parochial school. Those who have grown up in, or around, Catholic or Lutheran schools often are confused about the type of school we have. I usually am able to explain that schools from parochial traditions are ministries of specific churches or denominations. Their school boards or administrators answer directly to a church council or diocese.
Hudsonville Christian School is set up differently. We do not represent one particular church council or diocese. Although we have close connections to many local churches in the Christian Reformed denomination, we are technically a non-denominational school that teaches from the Reformed, Christian perspective, while intentionally integrating faith and learning. Our stated purpose of Christian education indicates that it is not solely the church’s chief responsibility to train children from their parish, but rather it is the parents’ responsibility to train their children. Local churches walk beside parents in helping them grow as adults and to help train their children in God’s ways. But at HCS, it’s Christian parents that come together to create a school that points out man’s sinful state, the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, and the lordship of our God over creation.
When Hudsonville Christian School was founded in 1917, there was a school society of parents and supporters who came together and elected a board of directors to help give direction to the school. The board was responsible to select and hire staff, set the policy and procedures for the smooth running of the school, and make sure that a quality, Christ-centered education from a Reformed perspective was made available for their children. That tradition continues today.
Last week Monday, March 14, parents and supporters of Hudsonville Christian School gathered together for the Annual Society Meeting. At that meeting, there were presentations of the proposed budget for the next school year and I reported on the happenings of HCS. The Society had an opportunity to elect two new members to the school board as well. It was a joyous occasion and a time to be reminded that God continues to be at the forefront of Christian education at HCS.
Be sure to mark your calendar so that you can attend the Society Meeting next year. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 20, 2023. The school board appreciates your support and involvement.
In His service, Devon Brinks, Superintendent
