Much to Discover!

We are entering a joy-filled, exciting time of the Holland Christian School calendar. Though the ground is still covered in snow and ice, we are busy making plans for the next school year. It is the season of school tours with new families, interviews with prospective parents, Discovery Night experiences and many conversations with folks who are curious to know more about who we are and what we do. Please join me in committing to pray for families who are seeking the educational home for their child where he/she will be loved, known, taught and grown into God. Schooling is a big decision and commitment for families to consider. We claim the promise in Ephesians 2:10 "For we are God's handiwork, created in Jesus Christ to do good work, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Thanks be to God that He holds the plans for our lives and for our children's journey. As parents, we can rest in that knowledge. As a school community, we know that we can be faithful and God will be great! January 19, 6:00 - 7:30PM is the date and time for this very special event designed to introduce Holland Christian to prospective parents and students for next year, especially at the Preschool and Kindergarten levels. What can you do? Pray for an overwhelming number of new families to come that evening, and for a wonderful experience for all whom God will bring. Pray for staff and our volunteers as we welcome and introduce ourselves to these prospective families. Help us to create the positive "buzz" for the night by spreading the word and invitation, and by telling your story of Holland Christian and South Side! Think about a family member, acquaintance, neighbor, friend, or colleague whom you could invite to this event. Some of our best advertising is you! Accompany someone to the event. You can greatly alleviate any discomfort someone might feel about walking through the doors of a building into which they've never stepped foot before. Your friendly and welcoming accompaniment may be just what is needed for someone to come and hear our story.

Makers Week Human beings are pretty astounding creatures, wouldn’t you agree? (admittedly we may be a little partial!) We are image bearers of a creative God. The Bible opens by detailing the story of God creating and unfolding the world and filling it with a creation that points to His glory. The beauty, intricacies, varieties and delicate balance through which life is allowed to flourish is nothing short of miraculous. Our God of the universe created us in His image. Wow. Astounding. As a place of learning, it is our responsibility to celebrate this gift of creativity in our children. It is imperative that we do all we can to nurture our children’s curiosity, creativity, and capacity for innovation. By allowing their imagination to flourish we enrich their learning experiences rather than stifling their “outside-of-the-box” thinking. Children have an extraordinary capacity for creativity, and they often use it unabashedly. During the week of February 22, your child will be engaged in Makers' Week. During Makers' Week, all students will be involved in engineering and/or techological-based projects. Our students will work side-by-side with teammates from all grades that have a common interest rather than a common age. We anticipate collaboration, problem-solving, coaching and encouraging among our children as they build, create, design and publish their work. You will hear more about this opportunity in the coming weeks http://www.hollandchristian.org/makers-week We are in need of a few donations. If you have any of the following laying around the house that you would be willing to part with, we will put these items to sound use! Thank you for taking a look at our list of needs:

• Small hand-tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, hammer
• Cookie Cutters
• Happy Meal-type toys and/or trinkets
• Kiddie Pool to borrow

Wacky Wednesdays Our parent team is once again sponsoring our Wacky Wednesday fun. Please take a look at the dates and theme as voted on by our sixth graders.: Pajama Day - January 13 Crazy Hair Day - January 20 Mismatched Day - January 27 Hat Day - February 3

South Side Sidewalk Even in the winter months, we have many neighbors who enjoy taking a walk around the block. As a driver pulling up to South Side, it’s difficult to see the sidewalk when parking the car along Pine Avenue. Inadvertently, our cars often drive up and park against the plowed snow bank which then blocks the sidewalk, forcing our neighbors to walk on the street. Whenever possible, please be mindful to leave enough space between the front of your car and the snow bank so our walking neighbors can safely stroll along Pine Avenue. Thank you. While we’re talking parking at South Side, thank you for adhering so well to the drop off policy: cars that are dropping off children and moving forward stay in the right lane of the circle drive. Cars that are exited by parents accompanying their children into school park in the left lane. This prevents children from crossing a moving lane of traffic unassisted. When parking side by side in our circle drive, no cars are able to pass through and exit the campus. Please be mindful to leave the right lane of traffic open for others to come and go.

Kinder Dutch Dance Signups have begun. Tulip Time will be coming up quickly! Being sent home today with 3rd - 5th Grades is information on Kinder Dutch Dance. Please review the information and sign-up to enjoy the fun! Home Page | Tulip Time, May 7-14, 2016 - Holland, Michigan. or contact Nicole Prins Nicole@tuliptime.com
ACE News Pine Ridge - The fun begins next week! SPORTS SPECTACULAR begins on Thursday, January 14, 2016 after school and the class is now full. We are looking for a few more students to make the BEADAZZLED class a go (this is a more intricate class than last year which includes wiring skills, custom beading, and even making a glass bead). Interested families should email Krista at kseabolt@hollandchristian.org by Saturday morning, January 9, 2016. Enrollment forms are available at hollandchristian.org/enrichment. Parents will be sent class details by Saturday evening! South Side- LEGOS MOTORS & MORE Jr. begins on Thursday, January 14, 2016 after school. The class is now full and parents have been contacted about details. CHAMPS books are in! We now have CHAMPS coupon books available in the office for the fabulous price of $25 a book. They make a great gift. Come check them out! Reminder of Ski Club Dates: Ski Club outing from today, rescheduled to next Friday, January 15, 2016. The forecast looks great!
Here are additional dates for your calendar:

• Jan. 15 & 22  
• Feb. 5 & 19 
• March 4

Dress for the Weather Please be sure to send your child with a jacket, hat, mittens, etc. as needed. We do not have enough of an inventory of these items in the office to supply all students who request outerwear when they do not have their own. Thanks for your help! Volunteers Needed: Pine Ridge- Piano Players for Chapel: We are in need of Piano Players for Chapel on Wednesday Afternoons from 12:30pm - 1:15pm. If you are available, and would like to sign up for February 3, 10, 17 and 24. Please Contact Laura in the office. 616.820.3505 or lnorman@hollandchristian.org. South Side & Pine Ridge- Thank you for your support in cutting, counting, and sorting Box Tops and Campbells labels. It is very helpful for the coordinators who compile and submit them to the company. Recently a check from Boxtops was received for $513.90 to be shared between both schools. If you are interested in helping, please contact Pat pmeiste@hollandchristian.org or Laura lnorman@hollandchristian.org for details. The final Spartan UPC labels have been submitted and we are waiting for this check to arrive. We will keep you posted once we have received payment. Thank you again for your past support! BOGO SALE at ditto. Do you have some Christmas money to spend? Maximize your dollars at ditto! Buy One Clothing Item and Get One Free during the months of January and February. Visit our website at http://www.dittoresale.com for your BOGO coupon. Also new at ditto—Customer Loyalty Cards. Your family wins with ditto! CALENDAR OF EVENTS January 8 Ski Club Trip Canceled for ( 6th Grade ) January 13 Wacky Wednesday - Pajama Day January 15 6th Grade Ski Club Trip January 18 No Holland Public Bus Transportation for AM or PM January 19 Discovery night 6:00pm - 7:30pm January 20 Wacky Wednesday - Crazy Hair Day January 22 6th Grade Ski Club Trip January 27 Wacky Wednesday - Mismatched Day
February 3 Wacky Wednesday - Hat Day February 5 6th Grade Ski Club Trip February 19 6th Grade Ski Club Trip February 22-26 Maker’s Week February 12 No school, Staff Development February 15 No school, Winter Break
March 4 6th Grade Ski Club Trip March 17 No Holland Public Bus Transportation for- PM March 18 End of Quarter 3
March 18 Fun Night at Pine Ridge (save the date) March 28, 29 Parent Teacher conferences (evening) March 30 Half day, P-T Conferences March 31-Apr 8 Spring Break

People of Advent

Rus Blondin, Barrett’s dad, shared in Pine Ridge chapel this week how we are called to be Advent people. Advent people celebrate Jesus’s birth--the past. Advent people are waiting for Jesus’s coming--the future. God calls us to be Jesus’s disciples to others in the present--loving, giving, sharing, and supporting. In the Advent spirit, Pine Ridge 6th grade students went caroling at local assisted living centers, 5th grade students raised almost $300.00 (throwing a garage sale) for baby diapers, and everyone together at Pine Ridge collected over 500 baby items for Positive Options clients. What a blessing to see how our community is sharing from their hearts and learning to live in the present as Advent people.

Traditionally, one expects that children attend school to learn from the well-laid plans provided by loving adults. However, the secret was out this week. Very often, the loving adults are impacted deeply with truths provided by the children. This week, the hearts and actions of our small South Side children challenged our staff. As you know, we spent the first two weeks of December collecting money to make purchases through World Renew. Helpful items for children and families were chosen and will be offered world wide. The accumulation of quiet, individual stories brought me to my knees and caused me to pause and examine my heart. I’d like to share just a few examples so you, too, can understand the depth of our children’s hearts. One child who had been saving her $1.00 per week allowance offered more than 4 months of her savings. Children who were gifted with Christmas money from family members gave their entire gift to World Renew. Conversations at home led to siblings offering their money for World Renew. Rather than succumbing to the offerings highlighted in the glossies that frequent our mailboxes at this time of year, so many children responded to the call to share their resources with those in need rather than purchase another toy that will add to the accumulating pile at home. The total of allowance money, piggy bank change and regifted dollars reached $1,856.86! My prayer is that these precious children will always remember the generous spirit with which they have embraced and lived out the spirit of giving, particularly throughout this season we celebrate Christ’s birth.

Here I am, Lord. Send me! 

A special thanks to so many of you who purchased poinsettias through our South Side sale. The profit of the sale totaled $987.75. This money will allow teachers to purchase more books for classroom libraries, storage systems to organize differentiated math projects and other classroom needs that directly impact our children’s education. THANK YOU for your ongoing support!

Please note the next blog will be published on Friday, January 8, 2016.

January's lunch menu can be accessed by clicking here.

Lost and Found Items
Today is the last day to check the tables set out in the hallway near the office at both campuses for lost items. Unclaimed items will be donated to Ditto at the end of the day. Smaller items: Jewelry, sunglasses, charms, earrings etc. will be in the office, please check in the office with Laura (PR) or Pat (SS).

CHAMPS books are available
We now have CHAMPS coupon books available in the office for the fabulous price of $25 a book. They make great gifts for the holiday season. Come check them out!

After school Community Enrichment (ACE) News
Pine Ridge Campus: Sign up soon and join the fun SPORTS SPECTACULAR and BEADAZZLED classes! The Winter session will begin on Thursday, January 14th for six Thursdays. What a perfect opportunity to also include a non-HC friend! For more forms and information, go to hollandchristian.org/enrichment

South Side Campus: Join the fun LEGOS MOTORS & MORE class! The Winter session will begin on Thursday, January 14th for six Thursdays. Mrs. VanMeeteren will lead the snack/recess time before class begins. What a perfect opportunity to also include a non-HC friend! To sign up, simply go to hollandchristian.org/enrichment to print out and complete the enrollment form.


DITTO Christmas Sale
Here are some specials offered for this month: 50¢ general tops/shirts (18th); 50% off shoes storewide (19th); 50% off Christmas décor (21st); 50% off general outerwear (22nd); and 25% off 1 item storewide (23rd). Go to our website at http://www.dittoresale.com for a coupon worth 25% OFF your total purchase for the month of December. Lastly, check out our FURNITURE SALE Dec. 26 to Jan. 2—25% OFF! The best part about ditto? Your shopping dollars support the students at HCS and ZCS. Your family wins with ditto! (Coupons and discounts cannot be combined.)Your shopping dollars support the students at HCS and ZCS. Your family wins with ditto! Click on attached COUPON!


Sixth Grade HC/Bittersweet Ski Club
Information went home for 6th Grade Ski Club. Please see attached Documents to Print and Sign, for Ski Club Card Purchases:

1. Ski Club information and Waiver registration forms
2. Q & A Ski Club Questions.
3. HC Ski Club information Dates

Bittersweet Ski Club forms and cards are also available in the office at Pine Ridge! Stop in anytime and purchase student or adult ski club cards once your form is filled out. Students 6th - 8th Grade Ski Club Cards are $24 each. Both sibling and adult cards are $16 each. Checks MUST be payable to Holland Christian Schools. Cash will also be accepted. We also now have a handout with the ski club dates for this year.

Ski Club Dates: All on Fridays
December 11th: Canceled Jan. 8 & 22 Feb. 5 & 19 March 4


Dress for the Weather
We are in that ‘in-between’ season time where it can be quite cold in the morning and comfortable in the afternoon. Please be sure to send your child with a jacket, hat, mittens, etc. as needed. We do not have enough of an inventory of these items in the office to supply all students who request outerwear when they do not have their own. Thanks for your help!


Double your online donations!
Now through December 31, 2015, all online donations to the Tuition Grant Fund will be doubled! We have received a challenge from two generous donors to match dollar for dollar the first $50,000. Click here to donate online.


Volunteers Needed:
Pine Ridge-
Piano Players for Chapel:
We are in need of Piano Players for Chapel on Wednesday Afternoons from 12:30pm - 1:15pm. If you are available, and would like to sign up for January 13, or 27. Please Contact Laura in the office. 616.820.3505 or lnorman@hollandchristian.org.


South Side & Pine Ridge-  Our Thanks!
For those who have helped us cut, count, and bundle Boxtops and Campbell's Labels we say thank you for your time and help.  We cannot do this without your willingness to assist us.   Please keep your scissors sharp and ready to take on the task again as the donations continue to come in.   

**Just a reminder: Spartan is no longer offering reimbursement for UPC labels, Thank you for your support!

After School Program
Holland Christian offers a Before and After School Program for Rose Park, South Side, and Pine Ridge Elementary students each full day school is in session. The Before and After School Program provides children with an opportunity to develop spiritually, emotionally, physically, and socially through organized group activities and play. The cost of the program is $5 per hour. Drop in care, for children who do not regularly participate in the Before and After School Program, is also available if space allows. Before School Care: 7:00 am - 8:10 am After School Care: 3:15 pm - 5:30 pm If you have questions, please email Amanda Brouwer at abrouwer@hollandchristian.org. You may register for the program here



Calendar of Events

December 21-Jan 3             Christmas Vacation
January 4                            All Classes Resume
January 14                          After school Community Enrichment (ACE) Starts
January 18                          No Holland Public Bus Transportation AM or PM
February 12                        No school, Staff Development
February 15                        No school, Winter Break
March 17                            No Holland Public Bus Transportation for- PM
March 18                            End of Quarter 3
March 28,29                       Parent Teacher conferences (evening)
March 30                            Half day, P-T Conferences
March 31-Apr8                  Spring Break

Merry Christmas!

"Mary Did You Know...

...that your baby boy would save our sons and daughters....the sleeping child you're holding is the Great I Am.”

Those words stir my soul. To hold a baby, new life, particularly at Christmas time (particularly if said baby is not crying) moves my heart to Mary's, to the extent to which it can. What was it like to hold the tiny fingers of the Christ child? How does a human being raise, care for, feed and develop God's own Son? As Karen VanMeeteren shared with our students during Friday morning’s praise and worship time, truly, the Christmas announcement is the greatest news in the history of the world. It is the fulfillment of God's promises. The redemption of the world in the messy birth of a tiny child. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Thank you for your continuous and varied support in this process of educating and growing your child! This support takes on many different forms: prayer, volunteering, communicating openly, school work support, etc. I’d like to make mention of our parent team as well. This week, our parent team provided a table of healthy snacks for our staffs at both Pine Ridge and South Side. What a joy! Our teachers don’t regularly sit all together and talk about life in general. It didn’t take long and the staff center was filled with loud laughter. It brings joy to my heart to see the loving adults who work with our children enjoying the team of people with whom God has placed them shoulder to shoulder with in this calling.


Lost and Found Items
Please make sure you check the tables set out in the hallway near the office at both campusues for anything you may have lost. Any unclaimed items will be donated to Ditto after Friday, Dec. 18th.  Smaller items: Jewelry, sunglasses, charms, earrings etc. will be in the office, please check  in the office  with Laura (PR) or Pat (SS).


CHAMPS books are in!
We now have CHAMPS coupon books available in the office for the fabulous price of $25 a book. They make great gifts for the holiday season.  Come check them out!

After school Community Enrichment (ACE) News 

• Pine Ridge Campus:  Sign up soon and join the fun SPORTS SPECTACULAR and BEADAZZLED classes!   The Winter session will begin on Thursday, January 14th for six Thursdays.  What a perfect opportunity to also include a non-HC friend!  For more forms and information, go to hollandchristian.org/enrichment
• South Side Campus:   Join the fun LEGOS MOTORS & MORE class!  The Winter session will begin on Thursday, January 14th for six Thursdays. Mrs. VanMeeteren will lead the snack/recess time before class begins. What a perfect opportunity to also include a non-HC friend!  To sign up, simply go to hollandchristian.org/enrichment to print out and complete the enrollment form.  

DITTO Christmas Sale
Have you been inside ditto’s lately? WOW! Vintage items. Home décor. Furniture. Boutique clothing. Plus, loads of items to create your own Pinterest masterpiece! Be sure to stop by ditto’s for some unique Christmas ideas! Go to our website at http://www.dittoresale.com for a coupon worth 25% OFF your total purchase for the month of December. The best part of ditto’s? Your shopping dollars support the students at HCS and ZCS. Your family wins with ditto!  Click on attached COUPON!

6th Grade HC/Bittersweet Ski Club
Information went home this week for 6th Grade Ski Club. Please see attached Documents to Print and Sign, for Ski Club Card Purchases.

1. Ski Club information and Waiver registration forms
2. Q & A Ski Club Questions.
3. HC Ski Club information Dates

Bittersweet Ski Club forms and cards are also available in the office at Pine Ridge! Stop in anytime and purchase student or adult ski club cards once your form is filled out. Students 6th - 8th Grade Ski Club Cards are $24 each. Both sibling and adult cards are $16 each. Checks MUST be payable to Holland Christian Schools. Cash will also be accepted. We also now have a handout with the ski club dates for this year.
Ski Club Dates: All on Fridays
December 11th:  Canceled Jan. 8 & 22 Feb. 5 & 19 March 4

Positive Options Collection (Formerly Lakeshore Pregnancy Center)
Just a reminder we are collecting Baby Items for Positive Options (Lakeshore Pregnancy Center) again this year.  Click here for a  List of Needs.  Please have your child bring in any of these items, before December 16.  Positive Options will be coming in to receive these gifts on December 16, at our Chapel, 12:30pm.  Thank you so much for your giving hearts.

World Renew Collection Program (SS)
God graciously includes us, His people, in His ongoing mission of reconciliation in the world. Every December we recommit ourselves as a community who strives to transform the world by reaching out to children and families in need to offer hope and help through the World Renew Gift Program. Each class will collect money from November 30-December 11. As the money is brought to school, students will total the donation and make decisions about how they would like to allocate the funds. Through the World Renew gift catalog, students can select items such as mosquito nets, health kits, goats, pigs, chimneys, latrines and water filters. We we hold a special chapel service on Wednesday, December 16 during which we will review what items our entire South Side community will be sending out around the world.

You are welcome to attend our chapel time on Wednesday, December 16 from 8:30-9:00 as we offer our gifts as a response to God's love and grace in our lives.

Dress for the Weather
We are in that ‘in-between’ season time where it can be quite cold in the morning and comfortable in the afternoon. Please be sure to send your child with a jacket, hat, mittens, etc. as needed. We do not have enough of an inventory of these items in the office to supply all students who request outerwear when they do not have their own. Thanks for your help!

Double your online donations!
Now through December 31, 2015, all online donations to the Tuition Grant Fund will be doubled! We have received a challenge from two generous donors to match dollar for dollar the first $50,000. Click here to donate online.

Volunteers Needed:
Pine Ridge-
Piano Players for Chapel:
We are in need of Piano Players for Chapel on Wednesday Afternoons from 12:30pm - 1:15pm.  If you are available, and would like to sign up for January 13, or 27.  Please Contact Laura in the office.  616.820.3505 or lnorman@hollandchristian.org.

South Side & Pine Ridge-
Boxtop and Campbell's Label Helpers Needed:
This includes checking expiration dates, trimming and bundling these into groups using rubber bands, envelopes or baggies. Counting total points and submitting them to Laura Norman or Pat Meiste for submission two times per year.  If you are interested in helping, please contact Pat pmeiste@hollandchristian.org or Laura lnorman@hollandchristian.org.
**Just a reminder: Spartan is no longer offering reimbursement for UPC labels, Thank you for your support!

After School Program
Holland Christian offers a Before and After School Program for Rose Park, South Side, and Pine Ridge Elementary students each full day school is in session. The Before and After School Program provides children with an opportunity to develop spiritually, emotionally, physically, and socially through organized group activities and play. The cost of the program is $5 per hour. Drop in care, for children who do not regularly participate in the Before and After School Program, is also available if space allows. Before School Care: 7:00 am - 8:10 am  After School Care:  3:15 pm - 5:30 pm  If you have questions, please email Amanda Brouwer at abrouwer@hollandchristian.org.   You may register for the program here.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS
December 16                TRIP Dates
December 16                 World Renew Celebration (8:30 a.m.- SS Gym)
December 16                 Positive Options Collection Celebration (12:30pm - PR Gym)
December  21-Jan 3      Christmas Vacation
January       4                 All Classes Resume
January      14                After school Community Enrichment (ACE) Starts
January      18               No Holland Public Bus Transportation AM or PM

REQUESTED ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Downtown Holiday Events Brochure copies are available in the school Offices or by clicking this link at Brochure Copy.

He is Coming!

A long time ago … I attended a local undergraduate college. I have many memories of those years. I made many lasting friendships, learned critical life skills, and began the process of shaping my world and life view. During this time I observed almost everything, with too critical an eye, especially those things happening close to me. I would pass judgment on a person or situation. As I was sitting in chapel this week listening to one of our parents challenging us to keep Jesus first during this Advent season, I remembered a time during Advent, while I was attending college, where a gentleman carrying a huge cross (his burden) preached to us, “the end is coming!”  We needed to be ready. I did not think much of his message at the time.  Today I realize that in his way he was challenging me and the other college students much like we were our Pine Ridge students in chapel. Tim Brown reminds us in his Coming Home devotions for Advent, that “the living God is, has been, and always will be about the business of getting ready. Should we be any different?”

During this Advent season, together let’s remind everyone that He is Coming!

CHAMPS books are in!

We now have CHAMPS coupon books available in the office for the fabulous price of $25 a book. They make great gifts for the holiday season.  Come check them out!

Holland Christian Christmas Concerts for 4th-8th grade band and orchestra students!
Monday, December 7 in the Holland Christian High School Auditorium.  Show times are as follows
6 PM: 4th, 5th and 6th grade Orchestras and Bands.
8 PM: MS Jazz Band, Orchestra, and Band.

After school Community Enrichment (ACE) News
Would your son or daughter enjoy staying active or creating custom beads this winter?  Then check out the enrollment forms for the ACE classes that came home today!  SPORTS SPECTACULAR and BEADAZZLED classes will begin on Thursday, January 14th for six Thursdays. What a perfect opportunity to also include a non-HC friend!  For more forms and information, go to hollandchristian.org/enrichment  Sign up as early as Monday, December 7th!

DITTO Christmas Sale 
Have you been inside ditto’s lately? WOW! Vintage items. Home décor. Furniture. Boutique clothing. Plus, loads of items to create your own Pinterest masterpiece! Be sure to stop by ditto’s for some unique Christmas ideas! Go to our website at http://www.dittoresale.com for a coupon worth 25% OFF your total purchase for the month of December. The best part of ditto’s? Your shopping dollars support the students at HCS and ZCS. Your family wins with ditto!  Click on attached COUPON!

6th Grade HC/Bittersweet Ski Club
Information went home this week for 6th Grade Ski Club. Please see attached Documents to Print and Sign, for Ski Club Card Purchases.

1. Ski Club information and Waiver registration forms
2. Q & A Ski Club Questions.
3. HC Ski Club information Dates

Bittersweet Ski Club forms and cards are also available in the office at Pine Ridge! Stop in anytime and purchase student or adult ski club cards once your form is filled out. Students 6th - 8th Grade Ski Club Cards are $24 each. Both sibling and adult cards are $16 each. Checks MUST be payable to Holland Christian Schools. Cash will also be accepted. We also now have a handout with the ski club dates for this year.

Positive Options Collection (Formerly Lakeshore Pregnancy Center)
Just a reminder we are collecting Baby Items for Positive Options (Lakeshore Pregnancy Center) again this year.  Click here for a  List of Needs.  Please have your child bring in any of these items, before December 16.  Positive Options will be coming in to receive these gifts on December 16, at our Chapel, 12:30pm.  Thank you so much for your giving hearts.

Girls on the Run
Girls on the Run Assistant coaches are still needed to help on Tuesdays/Thursdays come Spring!  Please contact Lisa VandenBerg if you are interested or if you have any further questions. tlvand@charter.net or 616-836-4843.

World Renew Collection Program (SS)
God graciously includes us, His people, in His ongoing mission of reconciliation in the world. Every December we recommit ourselves as a community who strives to transform the world by reaching out to children and families in need to offer hope and help through the World Renew Gift Program. Each class will collect money from November 30-December 11. As the money is brought to school, students will total the donation and make decisions about how they would like to allocate the funds. Through the World Renew gift catalog, students can select items such as mosquito nets, health kits, goats, pigs, chimneys, latrines and water filters. We we hold a special chapel service on Wednesday, December 16 during which we will review what items our entire South Side community will be sending out around the world.

We invite you to participate in this program. You may encourage your child to complete special jobs around the house to earn money. Perhaps they can dig into their own piggy bank for an offering. You are welcome to attend our chapel time on Wednesday, December 16 from 8:30-9:00 as we offer our gifts as a response to God's love and grace in our lives.

Dress for the Weather
We are in that ‘in-between’ season time where it can be quite cold in the morning and comfortable in the afternoon. Please be sure to send your child with a jacket, hat, mittens, etc. as needed. We do not have enough of an inventory of these items in the office to supply all students who request outerwear when they do not have their own. Thanks for your help!

Double your online donations!
Now through December 31, 2015, all online donations to the Tuition Grant Fund will be doubled! We have received a challenge from two generous donors to match dollar for dollar the first $50,000. Click here to donate online.

Volunteers Needed: 
Pine Ridge-
Piano Players for Chapel:
We are in need of Piano Players for Chapel on Wednesday Afternoons from 12:30pm - 1:15pm.  If you are available, and would like to sign up for January 13, 20 or 27.  Please Contact Laura in the office.  616.820.3505 or lnorman@hollandchristian.org.

South Side & Pine Ridge-
Boxtop and Campbell's Label Helpers Needed:
This includes checking expiration dates, trimming and bundling these into groups using rubber bands, envelopes or baggies. Counting total points and submitting them to Laura Norman or Pat Meiste for submission two times per year.  If you are interested in helping, please contact Pat pmeiste@hollandchristian.org or Laura lnorman@hollandchristian.org.
**Just a reminder: Spartan is no longer offering reimbursement for UPC labels, Thank you for your support!

After School Program
Holland Christian offers a Before and After School Program for Rose Park, South Side, and Pine Ridge Elementary students each full day school is in session. The Before and After School Program provides children with an opportunity to develop spiritually, emotionally, physically, and socially through organized group activities and play. The cost of the program is $5 per hour. Drop in care, for children who do not regularly participate in the Before and After School Program, is also available if space allows. Before School Care: 7:00 am - 8:10 am  After School Care:  3:15 pm - 5:30 pm  If you have questions, please email Amanda Brouwer at abrouwer@hollandchristian.org.   You may register for the program here.

Emergency Procedures:
As the weather changes from summer to fall, it is time for you to become familiar with our emergency procedures, particularly during a tornado watch or warning. The guidelines below are also found in our elementary handbook online.
Tornado Watch
1. All students will remain in their building under the direct supervision of their teachers.
2. The regular school schedule will be followed.
3. Classes will be dismissed at the regular time.
Tornado Warning
1. No student will be dismissed. Children may be released to a parent who personally comes to get the child (although this is not recommended).
2. All students will be assigned to the safest possible area within the school building until the warning has been lifted. Civil Defense Officials have assisted us in determining these areas.
*** It is helpful to us if you do not call the school during these times. It is not that we do not want you to know what is happening, but our attention needs to be on the safety of the children. Thanks! Fire, tornado and lockdown drills are held periodically throughout the school year according to Michigan School Guidelines. We will be practicing a tornado and fire drill soon!

CALENDAR OF EVENTS
November 30- Dec. 11   World Renew Collection (South Side)
December 9 & 16           TRIP Dates
December 7                   4th - 8th Grade Band & Orchestra Concert  ( 4th -6th Starts at 6pm )
December 16                  World Renew Celebration (8:30 a.m.- SS Gym)
December 16                 Positive Options Collection Celebration (12:30pm - PR Gym)
December  21-Jan 3       Christmas Vacation
January       4                  All Classes Resume
January      14                 After school Community Enrichment (ACE) Starts

REQUESTED ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Downtown Holiday Events Brochure copies are available in the school Offices or by clicking this link at Brochure Copy.

Makers Week Preparations Are Underway!

At Holland Christian, we believe that places of learning should excite and engage students. God created children to instinctively reach their hands into everything to explore and learn His big, marvelous world. To that end, our elementary campuses will be holding a Makers Week for our learners in February of next year. During Makers Week, our students will collaborate and problem solve together in experiences surrounding science, technology, engineering and mathematical concepts.  In “make” experiences, students revel in the satisfaction of their successes, and they rally around each other when faced with failure. What a joy to observe our students questioning, creating, struggling, inventing, reflecting and ultimately, learning. We will continue to foster students’ curiosity, challenge their thinking and keep their passion to learn burning brightly.

In one of our Makers’ Week sessions, students will be engaged in completing a simple task utilizing their design of a Rube Goldberg machine. Please enjoy this brief clip for an example of one such series of simple machines that complete a task:

If we may, we’d like to ask for your help in the donation of materials with which students can design and build their Rube Goldberg machines during Makers’ Week. If you have any (or all ;) ) of the following materials that you would be willing to donate to school, we would be very appreciative of your generosity and will put the items to great use! Thank you for taking a look at home for the following materials:

Just a reminder
There is no school next week Wednesday, Thursday or Friday.  Due to our short week - our next Elementary News letter will be published on December 4.  Wishing all of you a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.

TRIP
Just a reminder -- If you need gift cards for Christmas gifts, they need to be ordered by Wednesday, December 2.  TRIP will run December 2, 9 & 16th this month. Only a limited number of Gift cards will be on hand for purchase on scheduled TRIP days.

CHAMPS books are in!
We now have CHAMPS coupon books available in the office for the fabulous price of $25 a book. They make great gifts for the holiday season.  Come check them out!

6th Grade HC/Bittersweet Ski Club
Information went home this week for 6th Grade Ski Club. Please see attached Documents to Print and Sign, for Ski Club Card Purchases.

1. Ski Club information and Waiver registration forms
2. Q & A Ski Club Questions. 
3. HC Ski Club information Dates 

Bittersweet Ski Club forms and cards are also available in the office at Pine Ridge! Stop in anytime and purchase student or adult ski club cards once your form is filled out. Student Ski Club Cards are $24 each. Both sibling and adult cards are $16 each. Checks MUST be payable to Holland Christian Schools. Cash will also be accepted. We also now have a handout with the ski club dates for this year.

Join us for Author, Steve VanHaitsma's Book launch
Join the sixth grade students at Pine Ridge Christian School in celebrating the release of "Wizard of the March" by Steve VanHaitsma.

Mr. VanHaitsma has met with the sixth graders over the past month sharing his story. The students have learned first hand what it means to develop, write, and publish a novel. Please join them in celebrating the release of "Wizard of the March." Look forward to music, snacks and autographed books available for purchase! Two dollars of the purchase price per book on this night will go to Holland Christian Schools. Join us Monday, November 23 at 6:30pm - 8:00pm in the Pine Ridge library.

Scholastic Book Fair
If you missed the Book Fair sale times this week, you may still order online. Please click the attached link: Scholastics Direct Ordering Page, This link will be active until November 25th. Thank you so much Val Nyhof for organizing this book fair and our many volunteers that made this year’s book fair a big success! 

Holland Christian Christmas Concerts for 4th-8th grade band and orchestra students!
Monday, December 7 in the Holland Christian High School Auditorium.  Show times are as follows
6 PM: 4th, 5th and 6th grade Orchestras and Bands;  8 PM: MS Jazz Band, Orchestra, and Band.

Positive Options Collection ( Formerly Lakeshore Pregnancy Center )
Just a reminder we are collecting Baby Items for Positive Options (Lakeshore Pregnancy Center) again this year. click here for a List of Needs. Please have your child bring in any of these items, before December 16. Positive Options will be coming in to receive these gifts on December 16 at our Chapel, 12:30pm. Thank you so much for your giving hearts.

Extended Care Program
HC is excited to offer our Extended Care Program for NOVEMBER 25 from 7 AM - 5 PM. There is no school on this date due to a Professional Development Day for staff and we want to continue to provide a safe, nurturing environment for your PreK-6th grader. Our regular after school rates will apply for this day. You can register your family for a few hours or the entire day. We will be meeting at our Rose Park Christian campus. We are getting our team together and need to have your family register if you are interested by November 16. Click HERE to register your family! Contact Amanda Brouwer - Extended Care Program Coordinator - abrouwer@hollandchristian.org for more information.

Update regarding Spartan Community Programs

The Spartan Community Programs are changing please see information below:

• Cash for Class- The final payout for this program will be November 22 - 28, 2015 . Purchases made with your yes card will automatically be credited to your designated account. A participant's yes card must be linked to an account to earn credit. A yes cardholder needs to visit www.myyesrewards.com to link their card to your school. 
• Cash for Labels Program - Spartan will discontinue payouts for Spartan Labels as of Dec. 15th. If you have been saving Spartan UPC Labels for school please turn them in by November 30th. This will allow time to count and submitted UPCs for final payout! Thank you for your participation. A new program is planned to begin in 2016, we will pass information along when it is available to us. 

Girls on the Run
Registration for the Spring 2016 Season will take place from November 1st, 2015 to November 30, 2015. Informational flyers are available in the office with registration details. Also, please continue to check GOTR website and Facebook page for registration updates! Girls on the Run Information Link Registration. Assistant coaches are needed to help on Tuesdays/Thursdays! Please contact Lisa VandenBerg if you are interested or if you have any further questions. tlvand@charter.net or 616-836-4843.

Annual Poinsettia Sale
South Side is selling 6” poinsettia plants with 5-7 blooms for $8.50 or 3/$24.00, with satisfaction guaranteed. The colors are red, white, pink, marble, and Maroon is back. Orders, with payment, will be taken until noon on Monday, November 30. Parents, please pick up orders at South Side on Thursday, December 3, between 2-5 PM or Friday, December 4, from 8:00 AM until 2:00 PM. Please contact Pat Meiste at pmeiste@hollandchristian.org or 616.820.3535. Thank you for your support! Order Form Correction: The maroon option was omitted in error. If you want to order this color, please write MRN on form and we will order it. Our apologies for the error.

World Renew Collection Program (SS)
God graciously includes us, His people, in His ongoing mission of reconciliation in the world. Every December we recommit ourselves as a community who strives to transform the world by reaching out to children and families in need to offer hope and help through the World Renew Gift Program. Each class will collect money from November 30-December 11. As the money is brought to school, students will total the donation and make decisions about how they would like to allocate the funds. Through the World Renew gift catalog, students can select items such as mosquito nets, health kits, goats, pigs, chimneys, latrines and water filters. We we hold a special chapel service on Wednesday, December 16 during which we will review what items our entire South Side community will be sending out around the world.

We invite you to participate in this program. You may encourage your child to complete special jobs around the house to earn money. Perhaps they can dig into their own piggy bank for an offering. You are welcome to attend our chapel time on Wednesday, December 16 from 8:30-9:00 as we offer our gifts as a response to God's love and grace in our lives.

Art Rooms Needs
Mrs. Walters art rooms are in need of a resupply of milk jug lids, water bottle lids, and larger lids such as peanut butter lids. Would you be willing to save them and send them to school?
Thank you!

Dress for the Weather
We are in that ‘in-between’ season time where it can be quite cold in the morning and comfortable in the afternoon. Please be sure to send your child with a jacket, hat, mittens, etc. as needed. We do not have enough of an inventory of these items in the office to supply all students who request outerwear when they do not have their own. Thanks for your help!

Double your online donations!
Now through December 31, 2015, all online donations to the Tuition Grant Fund will be doubled! We have received a challenge from two generous donors to match dollar for dollar the first $50,000. Click here to donate online.

Volunteers Needed:
South Side & Pine Ridge- need volunteers to help with Boxtop, Campbell's Labels for Education programs. This includes checking expiration dates, trimming and bundling these into groups using rubber bands, envelopes or baggies. Counting total points and submitting them to Laura Norman or Pat Meiste for submission two times per year. If you are interested in helping, please contact Pat at pmeiste@hollandchristian.org or Laura at lnorman@hollandchristian.org.

After School Program
Holland Christian offers a Before and After School Program for Rose Park, South Side, and Pine Ridge Elementary students each full day school is in session. The Before and After School Program provides children with an opportunity to develop spiritually, emotionally, physically, and socially through organized group activities and play. The cost of the program is $5 per hour. Drop in care, for children who do not regularly participate in the Before and After School Program, is also available if space allows. Before School Care: 7:00 am - 8:10 am After School Care: 3:15 pm - 5:30 pm If you have questions, please email Amanda Brouwer at abrouwer@hollandchristian.org. You may register for the program here.

Emergency Procedures:
As the weather changes from summer to fall, it is time for you to become familiar with our emergency procedures, particularly during a tornado watch or warning. The guidelines below are also found in our elementary handbook online.

Tornado Watch
1. All students will remain in their building under the direct supervision of their teachers.
2. The regular school schedule will be followed.
3. Classes will be dismissed at the regular time.

Tornado Warning
1. No student will be dismissed. Children may be released to a parent who personally comes to get the child (although this is not recommended).

2. All students will be assigned to the safest possible area within the school building until the warning has been lifted. Civil Defense Officials have assisted us in determining these areas.

*** It is helpful to us if you do not call the school during these times. It is not that we do not want you to know what is happening, but our attention needs to be on the safety of the children. Thanks! Fire, tornado and lockdown drills are held periodically throughout the school year according to Michigan School Guidelines. We will be practicing a tornado and fire drill soon!

CALENDAR OF EVENTS
November 23                Author, Steve VanHaitsma Book launch (6:30 at Pine Ridge)
November 25                No School: Staff Development
November 26-27          Thanksgiving Vacation
November 30- Dec. 11 World Renew Collection
November 30                Poinsettia orders due
December 7                 4th - 8th Grade Band and Orchestra Concert at the HS
December 16               World Renew Celebration (8:30 a.m.- SS Gym)
December 3 & 4          Poinsettia sale pick up at South Side
December 2 & 9          TRIP Dates
December 21-Jan 3      Christmas Vacation
January 4                     All Classes Resume


REQUESTED ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Downtown Holiday Events Brochure copies are available in the school Offices or by clicking this link at Brochure Copy.

Natures Story Tells God's Glory

  

Creation declares God’s glory each and every day. Sometimes in the beauty of a sunset. Sometimes in the colors of the flowers. Sometimes in the sound of crunching leaves under foot. Sometimes in the power of the wind, as we have experienced these last few days.

This week our students constructed a tree using cut out construction paper leaves to declare ways that we might glorify God in our everyday lives. Yellow, green, orange, and brown leaves hang from the tree, encouraging us to pray for others, be kind, read our Bibles, invite others to play, be a friend, do a chore without being asked, smile, compliment others, and many other examples of ways we can glorify God.

Scripture tells us “sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all people.” (1 Chronicles 16:23, 24) We are thankful that not only at this time of the year, but throughout the year, we get to glorify God together with all that he has created.

Scholastic Book Fair
Join us for Our Scholastic Book Fair at Pine Ridge.  Event runs Wednesday, Nov. 18 from 10:00am - 4:00pm, Thursday, Nov. 19 from 9:00am - 5:00pm and Friday, Nov. 20 from 9:00am - 4:00pm.  Take advantage of these great deals, these make wonderful Holiday Gifts as well.  

Extended Care Program
HC is excited to offer our Extended Care Program for NOVEMBER 25 from 7 AM - 5 PM. There is no school on this date due to a Professional Development Day for staff and we want to continue to provide a safe, nurturing environment for your PreK-6th grader.  Our regular after school rates will apply for this day.  You can register your family for a few hours or the entire day.  We will be meeting at our Rose Park Christian campus.  We are getting our team together and need to have your family register if you are interested by November 16.  Click HERE to register your family!  Contact Amanda Brouwer - Extended Care Program Coordinator - abrouwer@hollandchristian.org for more information.

Cash for Class-
November 22 - 28, 2015 (final payout for this program, see Update below)
Purchases made with your yes card will automatically be credited to your designated account.  A participant's yes card must be linked to an account to earn credit.  A yes cardholder needs to visit www.myyesrewards.com to link their card to your school. Once a yes rewards account is linked, it will automatically calculate the rebate for your school. The cashiers at each store location  has a list of program numbers by school name, if you need assistance.
UPDATE :  
Cash for Labels Program - Spartan will discontinue payouts for Spartan Labels as of Dec. 15th.  If you have been saving Spartan UPC Labels for school please turn them in by November 30th -- So they can be counted and submitted for final payout!  Thank you for your participation!
New Program coming in 2016 and we will pass information along when it is available to us.

Girls on the Run
Registration for the Spring 2016 Season will take place from November 1st, 2015 to November 30, 2015.   Informational flyers are available in the office with registration details.  Also, please continue to check GOTR website and Facebook page for registration updates!  Girls on the Run Information Link Registration.  Assistant coaches are needed to help on Tuesdays/Thursdays!  Please contact Lisa VandenBerg if you are interested or if you have any further questions.  tlvand@charter.net or 616-836-4843.

Annual Poinsettia Sale
South Side is selling 6” poinsettia plants with 5-7 blooms for $8.50 or 3/$24.00, with satisfaction guaranteed. The colors are red, white, pink, marble, and Maroon is back.  Orders, with payment, will be taken until noon on Monday, November 30.  Parents, please pick up orders at South Side on Thursday, December 3, between 2-5 PM or Friday, December 4, from 8:00 AM until 2:00 PM.  Please contact Pat Meiste at pmeiste@hollandchristian.org  or 616.820.3535. Thank you for your support!

The lunch Menu
The November menu is now available by clicking here.

Art Rooms Needs
Mrs. Walters art rooms are in need of a resupply of milk jug lids, water bottle lids, and larger lids such as peanut butter lids. Would you be willing to save them and send them to school?
Thank you!

Dress for the Weather
We are in that ‘in-between’ season time where it can be quite cold in the morning and comfortable in the afternoon. Please be sure to send your child with a jacket, hat, mittens, etc. as needed. We do not have enough of an inventory of these items in the office to supply all students who request outerwear when they do not have their own. Thanks for your help!

Double your online donations!
Now through December 31, 2015, all online donations to the Tuition Grant Fund will be doubled! We have received a challenge from two generous donors to match dollar for dollar the first $50,000. Click here to donate online.

Volunteers Needed: 
South Side & Pine Ridge-
Boxtop, Campbell's, and Spartan Label Helpers Needed:
This includes checking expiration dates, trimming and bundling these into groups using rubber bands, envelopes or baggies. Counting total points and submitting them to Laura Norman or Pat Meiste for submission two times per year.  If you are interested in helping, please contact Pat pmeiste@hollandchristian.org or Laura lnorman@hollandchristian.org.

After School Program
Holland Christian offers a Before and After School Program for Rose Park, South Side, and Pine Ridge Elementary students each full day school is in session. The Before and After School Program provides children with an opportunity to develop spiritually, emotionally, physically, and socially through organized group activities and play. The cost of the program is $5 per hour. Drop in care, for children who do not regularly participate in the Before and After School Program, is also available if space allows. Before School Care: 7:00 am - 8:10 am  After School Care:  3:15 pm - 5:30 pm  If you have questions, please email Amanda Brouwer at abrouwer@hollandchristian.org.   You may register for the program here.

Emergency Procedures:
As the weather changes from summer to fall, it is time for you to become familiar with our emergency procedures, particularly during a tornado watch or warning. The guidelines below are also found in our elementary handbook online.
Tornado Watch
1. All students will remain in their building under the direct supervision of their teachers.
2. The regular school schedule will be followed.
3. Classes will be dismissed at the regular time.
Tornado Warning
1. No student will be dismissed. Children may be released to a parent who personally comes to get the child (although this is not recommended).
2. All students will be assigned to the safest possible area within the school building until the warning has been lifted. Civil Defense Officials have assisted us in determining these areas.
*** It is helpful to us if you do not call the school during these times. It is not that we do not want you to know what is happening, but our attention needs to be on the safety of the children. Thanks! Fire, tornado and lockdown drills are held periodically throughout the school year according to Michigan School Guidelines. We will be practicing a tornado and fire drill soon!

CALENDAR OF EVENTS
November 9-30               Annual Poinsettia Sale (South Side)
November 12-                 1st Annual family Ornament Night (South Side)
November 12 & 13 -       No Holland Public Busing Transportation in the Afternoon
November 17                  MLA tryouts/parent mtg (6:30-7:30)
November 18,19 & 20 -  Scholastics Book Fair at Pine Ridge
November 23 Author, Steve VanHaitsma book launch (6:30 at Pine Ridge)
November  25 -               No School: Staff Development
November  26-27-           Thanksgiving Vacation
December  21-Jan 3-       Christmas Vacation
January       4 -                 All Classes Resume

REQUESTED ANNOUNCEMENTS:
MLA Elementary Age Group Swimming 
New Head coach, Tom Cuticchia is pleased to announce the MLA Future Stars will return for a new Winter Swim Season!  Parents, help you kids stay active this winter at the Holland Community Aquatic Center.  New swimmer tryouts and an all swimmer parent meeting will be at 6:30p -7:30pm, November 17.  The season starts November 23.  Full schedules can be found at: www.iswimmla.org  Contact Coach Tom or Coach Kyle @ 616-393-7595.

Elks Hoop Shoot
There is an Elks “Hoop Shoot” (foul shooting contest) on Saturday January 4th at the Hope College Dow Center for any interested students. This is a low key free throw shooting contest for any boy or girl 8 years and older. Everyone shoots 25 free throws and they simply count up how many you make. The top 1-2 kids in each age division, move on to the next level of competition and win a little trophy. Over the years, many of our students have done well. Kids who are 8-9 years old shoot from a line 4 feet in front of the regulation free throw line. Boys compete against boys and girls vs. girls. Registration for the contest is between 12:15 and 1:00pm and the contest begins at 1:00pm.  If you have more questions please contact Ron Elenbaas 616-399-6695.

Sunshine in November!

Sunshine in November!
This week was beautiful! At recess we played four square, GaGa ball, and soccer in short sleeve shirts. After school while waiting for the bus, we jumped rope, played keep away with James' hacky sack ball, and tried to turn cartwheels... all while enjoying the sunshine. On a few field trips this week, we were able to enjoy this great November weather along with the earth keeping lessons from the farm.



Midweek a staff members' husband had a work accident and ended up in the hospital with two broken vertebrates. When I asked how she was doing and how we could help, she quickly responded, "You already did!" She went on to explain that she normally does not attend chapels because she is usually working in a different building at the time. But two weeks ago she was needed in chapel because the projector was not working. Since she was there she stayed to listen, where the teacher was talking about God holding us in the palm of his hand. She said that the whole time she was waiting at the hospital, all she could think about was how her husband was in God's hand. She could feel our prayers and God's hands holding them up. This is how God is revealed to us through "Life Together," both in days of sunshine and in those days that are darker.

Extended Care Program
HC is excited to offer our Extended Care Program for NOVEMBER 25 from 7 AM - 5 PM. There is no school on this date due to a Professional Development Day for staff and we want to continue to provide a safe, nurturing environment for your PreK-6th grader.  Our regular after school rates will apply for this day.  You can register your family for a few hours or the entire day.  We will be meeting at our Rose Park Christian campus.  We are getting our team together and need to have your family register if you are interested by November 16.  Click HERE to register your family!  Contact Amanda Brouwer - Extended Care Program Coordinator - abrouwer@hollandchristian.org for more information.

The lunch Menu
The November menu is now available by clicking here.

Art Rooms Needs
Mrs. Walters art rooms are in need of a resupply of milk jug lids, water bottle lids, and larger lids such as peanut butter lids. Would you be willing to save them and send them to school?
Thank you!

Dress for the Weather
We are in that ‘in-between’ season time where it can be quite cold in the morning and comfortable in the afternoon. Please be sure to send your child with a jacket, hat, mittens, etc. as needed. We do not have enough of an inventory of these items in the office to supply all students who request outerwear when they do not have their own. Thanks for your help!

Annual Poinsettia Sale
South Side is selling 6” poinsettia plants with 5-7 blooms for $8.50 or 3/$24.00, with satisfaction guaranteed. The colors are red, white, pink, marble, and Maroon is back.  Orders, with payment, will be taken until noon on Monday, November 30.  Parents, please pick up orders at South Side on Thursday, December 3, between 2-5 PM or Friday, December 4, from 8:00 AM until 2:00 PM.  Please contact Pat Meiste at pmeiste@hollandchristian.org  or 616.820.3535. Thank you for your support!

Girls on the Run
Registration for the Spring 2016 Season will take place from November 1st, 2015 to November 30, 2015.   Please look for your daughter to take home an informational flyer with registration details. Also, please continue to check our website and Facebook page for registration updates!  Girls on the Run Information Link.  Please contact Lisa VandenBerg if you have any further questions tlvand@charter.net or 616-836-4843.

MLA Elementary Age Group Swimming 
New Head coach, Tom Cuticchia is pleased to announce the MLA Future Stars will return for a new Winter Swim Season!  Parents, help you kids stay active this winter at the Holland Community Aquatic Center.  New swimmer tryouts and an all swimmer parent meeting will be at 6:30p -7:30pm, November 17.  The season starts November 23.  Full schedules can be found at: www.iswimmla.org  Contact Coach Tom or Coach Kyle @ 616-393-7595.

Double your online donations!
Now through December 31, 2015, all online donations to the Tuition Grant Fund will be doubled! We have received a challenge from two generous donors to match dollar for dollar the first $50,000. Click here to donate online.

Volunteers Needed: 
South Side & Pine Ridge-
Boxtop, Campbell's, and Spartan Label Helpers Needed:
This includes checking expiration dates, trimming and bundling these into groups using rubber bands, envelopes or baggies. Counting total points and submitting them to Laura Norman or Pat Meiste for submission two times per year.  If you are interested in helping, please contact Pat pmeiste@hollandchristian.org or Laura lnorman@hollandchristian.org.

Cash for Class-
November 22 - 28, 2015
Purchases made with your yes card will automatically be credited to your designated account.  A participant's yes card must be linked to an account to earn credit.  A yes cardholder needs to visit www.myyesrewards.com to link their card to your school. Once a yes rewards account is linked, it will automatically calculate the rebate for your school. The cashiers at each store location  has a list of program numbers by school name, if you need assistance. Thank you for your participation!

First Annual Family Ornament Night!
Holland Christian  preschool program is holding a night of fun as listed-
Tuesday, November 10 from 6-9pm @ Rose Park  
Thursday, November 12 from 6-9pm @ South Side
The cost is $10 per ornament.   No appointment or experience needed. All supplies are provided to make a fun ornament and will be available for pick up in classrooms November 23rd and 24th.  We are looking forward to a night of great memories and new traditions!  Proceeds support Holland Christian Preschool Department.

After School Program
Holland Christian offers a Before and After School Program for Rose Park, South Side, and Pine Ridge Elementary students each full day school is in session. The Before and After School Program provides children with an opportunity to develop spiritually, emotionally, physically, and socially through organized group activities and play. The cost of the program is $5 per hour. Drop in care, for children who do not regularly participate in the Before and After School Program, is also available if space allows. Before School Care: 7:00 am - 8:10 am  After School Care:  3:15 pm - 5:30 pm  If you have questions, please email Amanda Brouwer at abrouwer@hollandchristian.org.   You may register for the program here.

Emergency Procedures:
As the weather changes from summer to fall, it is time for you to become familiar with our emergency procedures, particularly during a tornado watch or warning. The guidelines below are also found in our elementary handbook online.
Tornado Watch
1. All students will remain in their building under the direct supervision of their teachers.
2. The regular school schedule will be followed.
3. Classes will be dismissed at the regular time.
Tornado Warning
1. No student will be dismissed. Children may be released to a parent who personally comes to get the child (although this is not recommended).
2. All students will be assigned to the safest possible area within the school building until the warning has been lifted. Civil Defense Officials have assisted us in determining these areas.
*** It is helpful to us if you do not call the school during these times. It is not that we do not want you to know what is happening, but our attention needs to be on the safety of the children. Thanks! Fire, tornado and lockdown drills are held periodically throughout the school year according to Michigan School Guidelines. We will be practicing a tornado and fire drill soon!

Scholastic Book Fair
Student or Parent Volunteers needed to help with the Scholastics Book Fair at Pine Ridge to help set up on November 17th, after School.  We are also looking for Parent Volunteers to help run the event on November 18, 19 and 20th.  If you are willing to help, please contact Val Nyhof at valnyhof@hotmail.com or Pat Meiste 820-3535, Laura 820-3505 at the school offices.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS
November 6 -                  No Holland Public Busing Transportation AM and PM
November 9-30               Annual Poinsettia Sale (South Side)
November 12-                 1st Annual family Ornament Night (South Side)
November 12 & 13 -       No Holland Public Busing Transportation in the Afternoon
November 17                  MLA tryouts/parent mtg (6:30-7:30)
November 18,19 & 20 -  Scholastics Book Fair at Pine Ridge
November 23 Author, Steve VanHaitsma book launch (6:30 at Pine Ridge)
November  25 -               No School: Staff Development
November  26-27-           Thanksgiving Vacation
December  21-Jan 3-       Christmas Vacation
January       4 -                 All Classes Resume