Mrs. Tammy Holwerda

Professional Biography

I graduated from Calvin College in 1989 with a degree in K-12 music education and started my short teaching career at Lansing Christian, IL. My husband and I later moved to the Philippines where we worked with Christian Reformed World Missions (now Resonate Global Mission) for 14 years.  In addition to participating with a church planting team, I was also able to teach in several international school settings. Since joining the Hudsonville Christian staff in 2013, I have added an English/language arts certificate and am pursuing my Master’s degree at Grand Valley State University in literacy education.  I feel privileged to teach at Hudsonville Christian where I can tap into the intelligence and curiosity of middle schoolers and challenge their faith and choices.

Personal Biography

Growing up in Southern California, I attended a Christian school very similar to Hudsonville Christian.  My husband Tim and I have four children who have all attended HCS. Our family loves Lake Michigan, traveling to national parks and learning about other cultures.  I love playing games, being with my family, reading, leading worship, playing piano, and catching a coffee with friends. Our years as a family overseas has forever changed my perspective on poverty, the gift of education and the Lord’s ability to change people.

Philosophical Biography

As a teacher, I am also a learner – of information, methods, culture, students and middle school life.  Middle school is a time of growing independence and choice. I teach a variety of different classes at HCMS – health, Decisions, career exploration and music – and they all share a common theme: choice.  I believe that my classroom must be a safe place where students can ask questions about their choices and think beyond their current practices and positions. Throughout the year, students are challenged to grow in self-awareness, relationships, cultural awareness, health choices, music picks and media options.  Through all of these conversations, we learn together about what it means to be a Christ-follower in every part of life.