Mrs. Mary Broene

Professional Biography

In 1975, I graduated from Grand Rapids Christian High School. Over the next few years I completed a BA degree from Calvin College. After graduation from Calvin College in May of 1980, I began my teaching career as a sixth grade teacher at Sylvan Christian. I taught for 13 years in sixth grade. Over the next ten years I had a combination of roles in middle school education as a teacher of Bible, Science and Physical Education in seventh and eighth grades, athletic director and part time administrator. I was a principal at Grand Rapids Christian Middle School for six year and became principal at Hudsonville Christian Middle School in 2010.

Personal Biography

I was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. My entire K-12 education experience was in the Grand Rapids Christian school system. I am married to my husband, Bob, who is tremendously supportive in my role as principal. We enjoy golfing, traveling and spending time with extended family.

Philosophical Biography

Christian education is distinct and different and this is because of the intentional integration of faith and learning. The biblical pattern of creation, fall, and redemption/reconciliation shapes the faith and practice of Christian education. What is taught, why it is taught, and how it is taught must reflect the light of God’s teaching. One obvious goal in students’ education is that of applying their faith to their life. Students must be taught that God created and sustains our world; He is in charge. They must be taught that we humans fell into sin and that through redemption in Christ, creation is being restored. We as Christians are being called to do God’s work in the world, and we can do so with the power of the Holy Spirit. In doing this we are showing God’s love through our lives by being stewards and caretakers of His creation – agents of restoration in God’s world. Lastly, Christian education is distinctly different because of the role that the home, school and church have in the education of the students. This is a covenantal responsibility and this partnership plays a significant role in challenging our students’ minds and lives for Christ.