It's Time to Make!

I trust you have heard by now that our South Side and Pine Ridge students are in for an educational ZING next week. After much planning, researching and prepping, our students will be engaged in a variety of innovative learning episodes involving science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related problems. This past week each child was invited to select learning experiences that most interested him/her. Class lists have been created and we are eager to begin our learning. Makers Week was implemented last year at South Side and we were thrilled and grateful for the level of engagement, enthusiasm and learning displayed by our young students. Please be sure to ask your child what new projects he/she engaged in each day. We expect some exciting stories will be shared with you at home and we pray that many children will be inspired to carry on with invigorating hands-on learning as well. God created our children in His image. As image bearers of God, we celebrate the gift of curiosity and creativity. We expect Makers Week to be both a celebration of that creativity and plenty of challenging work to engage our students wholly.

You are invited to our schools at any time, as always. Feel free to peruse during Makers Week hours. At South Side we will be engaged in these project from 8:30-10:30 Monday through Thursday. Pine Ridge will hold Makers Week sessions from 12:40-2:00. On Friday, you are invited to our Makers celebration. At South Side, we will hold an assembly to celebrate our success in learning from 8:30-9:00. At Pine Ridge, our celebration will be held from 12:40-1:30. You are WELCOME to attend and celebrate with us.

Our high school robotics team visited South Side with their robots to both inspire and dazzle our students!

Internet Safety Talk
On Monday, March 14, Holland Christian Middle School will be hosting an Internet Safety talk at the HCHS auditorium starting at 7 pm.  This event will feature Mr. Dan Landstra from Unity Christian High School, who has become a local expert and speaker on the Internet, its pitfalls, as well as safety and hope for families.  I invite you to this event and encourage you to extend an invitation to any people outside our Holland Christian directory as well--neighbors, fellow church members, colleagues, etc.  I also encourage you to plan to attend with your children who are in grades 6-12, as this will ensure hearing a common message, and provide a wonderful opportunity to digest and discuss the message during the car ride home.  Given the mature nature of the material discussed, students younger than sixth grade are discouraged from attending, but all parents are welcome.

Mini Maroons Volleyball Clinic
An information flyer was sent home today with students to register for Spring Volleyball Clinic for Boys & Girls before March 2nd.  Holland Christian’s own Volleyball coaches and players will be gearing up for the first ever Mini Maroons Spring Volleyball Clinic on March 12, 19 and 26th, at Pine Ridge Elementary!!  This is for boys & girls in grades 2nd-4th from 8:30am - 10am and 5th-6th grades from 10:30am - Noon. Over the course of the three Saturdays, the basic skills of passing, setting, hitting and serving will be taught, in addition to experiencing the joys of being active!  Included in the $30 fee will be  the 3 clinic times and a Mini Maroons t-shirt!  To sign up go to http://.app.programax.org/users/sign_up?parent=true  If you have any questions, Please contact Coach Lillian Summerville jsommerville@hollandchristian.org

Fundraiser Basketball Game
Getting Cabin Fever?  Come cheer on your favorite team!  HC ALUMNI vs. STAFF fundraiser basketball game, Saturday, March 5, 2016 at 7:00 PM in the HCHS gym.  Minimum $5 donation at the door.   Join  the ½ Court Shot Competition.  Pay a $1.00 for every shot opportunity.  For all baskets made, your name will be put in a hat for a drawing to win a  Maroon & White Shop gift certificate.  All proceeds support the band and orchestra spring trip to Florida-education, service, performance, excellence.

HC Showcase-2016
"Doo-Wop: A Night of Song, Dance, and Nonsense Syllables" Come join the Living Hope Singers for a fun night of solos, duets, and group numbers from the Doo-Wop era. Showcase 2016 will be held on Friday and Saturday, March 18 and 19, 2016 at 7:00 pm in the Holland Christian Fine Arts Auditorium. Reserved tickets are available online at www.hollandchristian.org/livinghope for $10. Order tickets early for the best seats! (High school student general admission $8 tickets will be sold two week prior to the show during the lunch hours.)   Benjamin's Hope will receive $1 from each ticket sold.  For more information, contact Tam Treffers at 616-218-9181 or treffers@charter.net.

2016-17 Kindergarten Enrollment Has Started - Spread the Word!
Kindergarten enrollment is off to a great start! 2016-17 kindergarten enrollment is underway at hollandchristian.org/apply. Please enroll by March 1 in order for us to prepare class lists. If you have any questions about enrollment or know a family we should contact about kindergarten at HC, please contact Courtney Lampen at (616) 820-2804 or clampen@hollandchristian.org.

2016-17 Preschool Enrollment Is Underway! 
2016-17 preschool enrollment is underway! Go to hollandchristian.org/apply, create a username and password of your choice, and complete the requested information to enroll in the class you'd like. Preschool enrollment requires a $75 deposit. We're again offering 3-year-old, 4-year-old, and Junior Kindergarten morning classes, afternoon enrichment classes, and before and after school care. With these options, parents can create a fully customized schedule, ranging from part-time to full-time enrollment, that best meets their family's needs. Learn more at: hollandchristian.org/schools/preschool or contact Courtney Lampen at (616) 820-2804 or clampen@hollandchristian.org.

Girls On the Run
For girls who signed up for the 2016 season of Girls On the Run (GOtR), our first practice will be Tuesday, March 8, from 3:15pm-4:55pm (Note change in ending time, was previously stated as 4:45 pm). Practices are Tuesdays and Thursdays. Girls are to quickly change into their running clothes after school then meet their coaches in the Music Room at Pine Ridge. Direct further questions to Anita mulder- anitamulder@yahoo.com, or Pam VandeVusse- pammers79@yahoo.com.   Parents of GOtR should receive an email from coaches with further information.

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 March 2, 9, 16, and 23.  Please Contact Laura in the office.  616.820.3505 or lnorman@hollandchristian.org.

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

Reminder of Ski Club Dates: Feb. 19        and            March 4

Box Tops
The next submission will sent in on February 29.  Please have your collected Box Tops into either school by February 26.    If you would please keep an eye on the expiration date , it will help those preparing the Box Tops for mailing.

Customer Loyalty Cards at ditto.
 As a way to say THANK YOU to our frequent shoppers, ditto now has loyalty cards! Every $10 purchase earns a punch on your card. After 10 punches you receive 25% your next entire purchase!  Visit our website at http://www.dittoresale.com for current news and specials. Your family wins with ditto!

Family Fun Night March 18, 2016
Seussville Family Fun Night - Friday, March 18, 5:30 - 8:00  Volunteers Needed!  This is a fun night for kids and families, but we can't do it without your help!  Please consider volunteering for a shift.  You may fill out the pink paper form that was sent home with your child, or you may go online and sign up on the Sign Up Genius form we have created.  http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0c4daaab22a20-funnight   Please look for the pink information sheets as they also give information about jazzy jars and classroom contribution requests.  If you have any questions, please contact Dawn Baker at dabaker@hollandchristian.org  Thank you!!

Fun night donation opportunity - Fun night is only a few weeks away!  It is a night kids look forward to and an opportunity for families to connect with each other.  Each year we have donations that we are able to give away to families.  Please consider if you would be willing to donate something towards this part of fun night.  It might be an item from your business, a service, or you could donate a gift of money which we will use to purchase some items to give away.  These do not need to be big items - anything is welcome and appreciated!  Please contact Cindi Walraven at cindiwalraven@hotmail.com with questions or donations.  Thanks in advance for your contributions!

Advanced notice: The Athletic Department of Holland Christian Schools is offering students entering grades 7-12 the opportunity to complete a state required physical. Sports Physicals will be held on Tuesday, April 19, 6:30 - 9 pm at Lakeshore Health Partners located at 904 South Washington Avenue.  Physical will cost $15 this year. We will again be using SignupGenius for scheduling appointments online.  Please look for the link to be sent in an upcoming email.

Holland Christian School Summer Camps
The dates for the Holland Christian sports camps are now posted on the HC website under the Athletics tab. Although you can't officially register for the camps until April 11, when you will be able to do so online, you can at least coordinate your summer vacations along with any desired HC athletic camps.

Calendar of Events
February     19               6th Grade Ski Club Trip
February     22-26        Maker’s Week
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

Lent Season

Many years ago on a late afternoon much like today, I talked my two daughters into going cross country skiing with me. Elizabeth was maybe 9 years old and Emily was 7, so they were just beginning to enjoy the trails that I found fun and challenging. We were having a great time laughing, falling, and watching the wildlife as we were skiing that day. It began to turn dark and so we headed back toward the car.  The girls totally trusted me to be their guide and get them safely back home where it was warm and we could sit down for supper. The problem was I had become totally turned around, and instead of heading for the car, we were actually headed in the opposite direction. After about an hour and maybe a few miles of extra hiking because we were so tired from skiing, we finally made it back to the car and eventually home.

I find the Lent season is somewhat like this experience. We start with Ash Wednesday 46 days before Easter. We look forward to the journey and the experiences along the way. There is reflection and fasting, giving something up or taking something on during this period. We reach Palm Sunday and then Holy Week...Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, the Stations of the Cross, understanding the cost of Christ paid for our redemption. We are reminded that we are lost and we need a Savior. The timing of Easter is perfect. It comes at the right moment of our Lenten journey. Praise the Lord! We are blessed to walk this journey together with our students here at Holland Christian.

School Closings

Stay tuned to WOOD-TV8 and WZZM-13 for school cancellations.  You may also register online with either station to receive notices via email, phone, or text. This notice is also available through Power School, our school data base program.  

HC Showcase-2016

"Doo-Wop: A Night of Song, Dance, and Nonsense Syllables" Come join the Living Hope Singers for a fun night of solos, duets, and group numbers from the Doo-Wop era. Showcase 2016 will be held on Friday and Saturday, March 18 and 19, 2016 at 7:00 pm in the Holland Christian Fine Arts Auditorium. Reserved tickets are available online at www.hollandchristian.org/livinghope for $10. Order tickets early for the best seats! (High school student general admission $8 tickets will be sold two week prior to the show during the lunch hours.)   Benjamin's Hope will receive $1 from each ticket sold.  For more information, contact Tam Treffers at 616-218-9181 or treffers@charter.net.  

2016-17 Kindergarten Enrollment Has Started - Spread the Word!

Kindergarten enrollment is off to a great start! 2016-17 kindergarten enrollment is underway at hollandchristian.org/apply. Please enroll by March 1 in order for us to prepare class lists. If you have any questions about enrollment or know a family we should contact about kindergarten at HC, please contact Courtney Lampen at (616) 820-2804 or clampen@hollandchristian.org.

2016-17 Preschool Enrollment Is Underway!

2016-17 preschool enrollment is underway! Go to hollandchristian.org/apply, create a username and password of your choice, and complete the requested information to enroll in the class you'd like. Preschool enrollment requires a $75 deposit. We're again offering 3-year-old, 4-year-old, and Junior Kindergarten morning classes, afternoon enrichment classes, and before and after school care. With these options, parents can create a fully customized schedule, ranging from part-time to full-time enrollment, that best meets their family's needs. Learn more at: hollandchristian.org/schools/preschool or contact Courtney Lampen at (616) 820-2804 or clampen@hollandchristian.org.

ACE News  

South Side  & Pine Ridge

​ A.C.E. will meet thru February 18th. You may contact Krista Seabolt at kseabolt@hollandchristian.org with questions.

CHAMPS books are available

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

Reminder of Ski Club Dates: Feb. 19        and            March 4

Box Tops

The next submission will sent in on February 29.  Please have your collected Box Tops into either school by February 26.    If you would please keep an eye on the expiration date , it will help those preparing the Box Tops for mailing.

Customer Loyalty Cards at ditto.  

As a way to say THANK YOU to our frequent shoppers, ditto now has loyalty cards! Every $10 purchase earns a punch on your card. After 10 punches you receive 25% your next entire purchase!  Visit our website at http://www.dittoresale.com for current news and specials. Your family wins with ditto!

Family Fun Night March 18, 2016

Have you guessed it from the clues??  Yes, a Dr. Seuss theme for this year’s fun night!  Look for volunteer information to come home with your child next week!

Fun night donation opportunity - Fun night is only a few weeks away!  It is a night kids look forward to and an opportunity for families to connect with each other.  Each year we have donations that we are able to give away to families.  Please consider if you would be willing to donate something towards this part of fun night.  It might be an item from your business, a service, or you could donate a gift of money which we will use to purchase some items to give away.  These do not need to be big items - anything is welcome and appreciated!  Please contact Cindi Walraven at cindiwalraven@hotmail.com with questions or donations.  Thanks in advance for your contributions!

Ditto Best of West MI Celebration!

Ditto is providing free Simpatico coffee, Valentine’s cookies, and special savings on Saturday, February 13 as a thank you for voting us the best resale shop in West Michigan! Please stop by anytime between 10 am and 6 pm. Visit our website for additional coupons at www.dittoresale.com. Come see what's new at ditto!

Advanced notice: The Athletic Department of Holland Christian Schools is offering students entering grades 7-12 the opportunity to complete a state required physical. Sports Physicals will be held on Tuesday, April 19, 6:30 - 9 pm at Lakeshore Health Partners located at 904 South Washington Avenue.  Physical will cost $15 this year. We will again be using SignupGenius for scheduling appointments online.  Please look for the link to be sent in an upcoming email.

Holland Christian School Summer Camps

The dates for the Holland Christian sports camps are now posted on the HC website under the Athletics tab. Although you can't officially register for the camps until April 11, when you will be able to do so online, you can at least coordinate your summer vacations along with any desired HC athletic camps.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

February    12 No school, Staff Development

February    13                Walk for Warmth event

February    15 No school, Winter Break

February     19               6th Grade Ski Club Trip

February     22-26 Maker’s Week

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

Requested Announcements

Walk for Warmth

Community Action Partners have been raising money for individuals and families in Ottawa County for 28 years, who have received a utility shut-off notice.  For more information go to https://www.miottawa.org/Community/CAA/walk_warmth_default.htm or Email Contact: walkforwarmthcaa@gmail.com, or call/text Mike Stock at (616) 638-8502

Event Date: Saturday, February 13th

Time: 8:30am

Place: City on A Hill, 100 Pine Street, Zeeland, MI 49464

S.T.E.A.M. 02/05/16

Our Makers Week event is nearing. We will hold Makers Week at both Pine Ridge and South Side during the week of February 22. Monday through Thursday of that week your child will be engaged in a learning experience that differs a bit from the traditional model. Each student will select four projects he/she is intrigued by and interested in. We will create class lists based on those interests rather than based on grade level. During Makers Week, your child will begin the day with his/her classroom teacher and then be told which room to walk to for the Science, Technology, Engineering, Art or Math-based project  of choice. From 8:30-10:30, they will work in teams engaged in projects requiring them to collaborate together, encourage one another, construct new creations and persist through frustrations. At 10:30, each student will return to their classroom to debrief and share a bit about their experience. We are excited about the depth of learning your child will experience during this week.

Walk for Warmth
South Side students are partnering with Walk for Warmth in helping families who have received a shut-off notice for their utilities. This week during Wellness Wednesday our student running club logged a cumulative 55 miles just during the noon recess! Hardy little folks! I have encouraged the students to see if they can shake 55 cents loose from their piggy banks at home to consider giving to our collection. Our coin drive will run through February 11.

Bus Lane
Travel can be tricky in winter weather. We are so grateful to our bus drivers who confidently and safely transport many of our children to and from school every day. Please respect their need to load our students and exit our parking lot in a safe and timely manner by leaving our bus lane clear every day between 7:45-8:20 and again from 3:00-3:30. The bus lane is curb side in the parking lot to the south of our building. Thank you for supporting and helping our bus drivers and our children.

School Closings
Stay tuned to WOOD-TV8 and WZZM-13 for school cancellations.  You may also register online with either station to receive notices via email, phone, or text. This notice is also available through Power School, our school data base program.

HC Showcase-2016
"Doo-Wop: A Night of Song, Dance, and Nonsense Syllables" Come join the Living Hope Singers for a fun night of solos, duets, and group numbers from the Doo-Wop era. Showcase 2016 will be held on Friday and Saturday, March 18 and 19, 2016 at 7:00 pm in the Holland Christian Fine Arts Auditorium. Reserved tickets are available online at www.hollandchristian.org/livinghope for $10. Order tickets early for the best seats! (High school student general admission $8 tickets will be sold two week prior to the show during the lunch hours.)   Benjamin's Hope will receive $1 from each ticket sold.  For more information, contact Tam Treffers at 616-218-9181 or treffers@charter.net.

2016-17 Kindergarten Enrollment Has Started - Spread the Word!
2016-17 kindergarten enrollment is underway at hollandchristian.org/apply! We will again be offering 3-Day+ and 5 Day classes. Please enroll by March 1 in order for us to prepare class lists. If you have any questions about enrollment or know a family we should contact about kindergarten at HC, please contact Courtney Lampen at (616) 820-2804 or clampen@hollandchristian.org.

2016-17 Preschool Enrollment Begins Next Week!
2016-17 preschool enrollment opens to the public February 10, but families with children already at Holland Christian Schools prek-12th grade may enroll beginning Tuesday, February 9. Go to hollandchristian.org/apply, create a username and password of your choice, and complete the requested information to enroll in the class you'd like. Important! We are not able to process applications received prior to February 9. Preschool enrollment requires a $75 deposit. We're again offering 3-year-old, 4-year-old, and Junior Kindergarten morning classes, afternoon enrichment classes, and before and after school care. With these options, parents can create a fully customized schedule, ranging from part-time to full-time enrollment, that best meets their family's needs. Learn more at: hollandchristian.org/schools/preschool or contact Courtney Lampen at (616) 820-2804 or clampen@hollandchristian.org.

ACE News
South Side  & Pine Ridge 
​ You may contact Krista Seabolt at kseabolt@hollandchristian.org with questions.

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

Reminder of Ski Club Dates: Feb. 19        and            March 4

Dress for the Weather
Please be sure to send your child with a jacket, hat, snow pants, and  mittens, etc.  We do not have enough 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!

Box Tops
The next submission will sent in on February 29.  Please have your collected Box Tops into either school by February 26.    If you would please keep an eye on the expiration date , it will help those preparing the Box Tops for mailing.

Family Fun Night
Clue #3 - "I meant what I said and I said what I meant.  An elephant's faithful one-hundred percent!"  Fun night is coming soon!!  March 18, 5:30 - 8:00 at Pine Ridge.  There will be many volunteer opportunities available!

Fun night donation opportunity - Fun night is only a few weeks away!  It is a night kids look forward to and an opportunity for families to connect with each other.  Each year we have donations that we are able to give away to families.  Please consider if you would be willing to donate something towards this part of fun night.  It might be an item from your business, a service, or you could donate a gift of money which we will use to purchase some items to give away.  These do not need to be big items - anything is welcome and appreciated!  Please contact Cindi Walraven at cindiwalraven@hotmail.com with questions or donations.  Thanks in advance for your contributions!

Ditto Best of West MI Celebration!
Ditto is providing free Simpatico coffee, Valentine’s cookies, and special savings on Saturday, February 13 as a thank you for voting us the best resale shop in West Michigan! Please stop by anytime between 10 am and 6 pm. Visit our website for additional coupons at www.dittoresale.com. Come see what's new at ditto!

Customer Loyalty Cards at ditto.
As a way to say THANK YOU to our frequent shoppers, ditto now has loyalty cards! Every $10 purchase earns a punch on your card. After 10 punches you receive 25% your next entire purchase! Visit our website at http://www.dittoresale.com for current news and specials. Your family wins with ditto!

Advanced notice: The Athletic Department of Holland Christian Schools is offering students entering grades 7-12 the opportunity to complete a state required physical. Sports Physicals will be held on Tuesday, April 19, 6:30 - 9 pm at Lakeshore Health Partners located at 904 South Washington Avenue.  Physical will cost $15 this year. We will again be using SignupGenius for scheduling appointments online.  Please look for the link to be sent in an upcoming email.

Holland Christian School Summer Camps
The dates for the Holland Christian sports camps are now posted on the HC website under the Athletics tab. Although you can't officially register for the camps until April 11, when you will be able to do so online, you can at least coordinate your summer vacations along with any desired HC athletic camps.

Calendar of Events
February    12                 No school, Staff Development
February    13                  Walk for Warmth event
February    15                 No school, Winter Break
February     19                 6th Grade Ski Club Trip
February     22-26            Maker’s Week

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

Requested Announcements

Walk for Warmth
Community Action Partners have been raising money for individuals and families in Ottawa County for 28 years, who have received a utility shut-off notice.  For more information go to https://www.miottawa.org/Community/CAA/walk_warmth_default.htm or Email Contact: walkforwarmthcaa@gmail.com, or call/text Mike Stock at (616) 638-8502
Event Date: Saturday, February 13th
Time: 8:30am
Place: City on A Hill, 100 Pine Street, Zeeland, MI 49464

Kinder Dutch Dance Signups have begun.
Tulip Time will be coming up quickly!  Being sent home today with 3rd - 5th Graders is information on Kinder Dutch Dance.  Please review the information and come enjoy the fun! Home Page | Tulip Time, May 7-14, 2016 - Holland, Michigan.  or contact Nicole Prins Nicole@tuliptime.com

Almost February 01/29/2016

Thinking about Groundhog Day makes me laugh. Spring does not actually begin until March 20 at 6:29 a.m., but if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter. If he does not see his shadow, spring weather comes early. Either way, the official start of spring is still going to be somewhere close to March 20. It is a fun diversion from the winter weather that is taking place in February as we begin to look forward to the coming of spring and new life.

In chapel one week from Wednesday, we will begin the Lent season when we put away the “Allelujahs” for a time. We challenge our staff and students to take on prayers of reflection and look forward to joyfully celebrating the resurrection of Jesus on Easter Sunday. As Christians, this is the day that marks the beginning of new life, the light of Jesus, and the promise of a new heaven and a new earth. We don’t know when, but as surely as spring will come, so will Christ’s return. We are blessed to be able, as a school family, to look forward to both Easter and the second coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

School Closings
Stay tuned to WOOD-TV8 and WZZM-13 for school cancellations.  You may also register online with either station to receive notices via email, phone, or text. This notice is also available   through Power School, our school data base program.

Parking in the Circle Drive at South Side
A gentle reminder of our drop-off policy in the circle drive at South Side: cars that are dropping off children and moving forward stay in the right lane of the circle drive. Cars being 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. Thank you for your efforts in being mindful to leave the right lane of traffic open for others to come and go.

Book Madness
An invitation from Rose Park students to our Pine Ridge 3rd - 5th Graders are you up for a Challenge?  Follow bookmadness1.weebly.com.  On this link you will find a list of the top 8 books voted by us!  Start reading those you haven’t read and follow our blog listed above to vote.  See which one will be the overall Winner!

HC Showcase-2016
"Doo-Wop: A Night of Song, Dance, and Nonsense Syllables" Come join the Living Hope Singers for a fun night of solos, duets, and group numbers from the Doo-Wop era. Showcase 2016 will be held on Friday and Saturday, March 18 and 19, 2016 at 7:00 pm in the Holland Christian Fine Arts Auditorium. Reserved tickets are available online at www.hollandchristian.org/livinghope for $10. Order tickets early for the best seats! (High school student general admission $8 tickets will be sold two week prior to the show during the lunch hours.)   Benjamin's Hope will receive $1 from each ticket sold.  For more information, contact Tam Treffers at 616-218-9181 or treffers@charter.net.


2016-17 Kindergarten Enrollment Begins Next Week!
2016-17 kindergarten enrollment begins next week! Enrollment opens to the public February 3, but families with children already in Holland Christian Schools prek-12th grade may enroll early beginning Tuesday, February 2, at hollandchristian.org/apply. (Important! We are not able to process registrations submitted prior to February 2.)

We will again be offering 3-Day+ and 5 Day classes. Children will need to be 5-years-old by September 1, 2016, to enroll in kindergarten. Please enroll by March 1 in order for us to prepare class lists. If you have any questions about enrollment, would like a tour, or need assistance in finding the perfect fit for your child, please contact Courtney Lampen at (616) 820-2804or clampen@hollandchristian.org.

2016-17 Preschool Enrollment
2016-17 preschool enrollment is right around the corner and we're excited to begin enrolling our youngest learners! We're again offering 3-year-old, 4-year-old, and Junior Kindergarten morning classes, afternoon enrichment classes, and before and after school care. With these options, parents can create a fully customized schedule, ranging from part-time to full-time enrollment, that best meets their family's needs. Learn more at: hollandchristian.org/schools/preschool

Preschool enrollment opens to the public February 10, but families with children already at Holland Christian Schools prek-12th grade may enroll beginning Tuesday, February 9. Go to hollandchristian.org/apply, create a username and password of your choice, and complete the requested information to enroll in the class you'd like. Important! We are not able to process applications received prior to February 9. Preschool enrollment requires a $75 deposit.

Wacky Wednesdays
Next week is the last Wacky Wednesday theme day voted on by our sixth graders.  Dig in your closets and see what you can come up with for -   Hat Day -  February 3rd.  

ACE News
South Side  & Pine Ridge 
​Thank you in advance for ​picking up​ your child​ promptly at ​4:55pm. You may contact Krista Seabolt at kseabolt@hollandchristian.org with questions.

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

Reminder of Ski Club Dates: Feb. 5 & 19         March 4

Dress for the Weather
Please be sure to send your child with a jacket, hat,snow pants, and  mittens, etc.  We do not have enough 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!

Box Tops
The next submission will sent in on February 29.  Please have your collected Box Tops into either school by February 26.    If you would please keep an eye on the expiration date , it will help those preparing the Box Tops for mailing.

Customer Loyalty Cards at ditto.
 As a way to say THANK YOU to our frequent shoppers, ditto now has loyalty cards! Every $10 purchase earns a punch on your card. After 10 punches you receive 25% your next entire purchase!  Visit our website at http://www.dittoresale.com for current news and specials. Your family wins with ditto!

Family Fun Night
Clue #2 - "I would not eat them here or there.  I would not eat them anywhere!"  Fun night coming soon!!  March 18, 5:30 - 8:00 at Pine Ridge.  There will be many volunteer opportunities available!  More information coming soon!

Advanced notice: The Athletic Department of Holland Christian Schools is offering students entering grades 7-12 the opportunity to complete a state required physical. Sports Physicals will be held on Tuesday, April 19, 6:30 - 9 pm at Lakeshore Health Partners located at 904 South Washington Avenue.  Physical will cost $15 this year. We will again be using SignupGenius for scheduling appointments online.  Please look for the link to be sent in an upcoming email.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS
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    13                Walk for Warmth event
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

Requested Announcements

Walk for Warmth
Community Action Partners have been raising money for individuals and families in Ottawa County for 28 years, who have received a utility shut-off notice.  For more information go to https://www.miottawa.org/Community/CAA/walk_warmth_default.htm or Email Contact: walkforwarmthcaa@gmail.com, or call/text Mike Stock at (616) 638-8502
Event Date: Saturday, February 13th
Time: 8:30am
Place: City on A Hill, 100 Pine Street, Zeeland, MI 49464

Kinder Dutch Dance Signups have begun.  
Tulip Time will be coming up quickly!  Being sent home today with 3rd - 5th Graders is information on Kinder Dutch Dance.  Please review the information and come enjoy the fun! Home Page | Tulip Time, May 7-14, 2016 - Holland, Michigan.  or contact Nicole Prins at Nicole@tuliptime.com

Opening Doors and Breaking Through Walls

This week has offered meaningful learning opportunities along with a good deal of snowy fun! The children are enjoying some serious outdoor playing during recess. They return with pink cheeks, squinting eyes adjusting from the sunlight bouncing off the bright white landscape, happily munching the mini-snowballs off of their cuffs while chatting away about their outdoors adventures with POD groups and/or friends. Good playing = good learning. Most recently that good learning involved trying to understand more clearly the levels of complexity that inequality present and the pain brought on by living in the world after the Fall. The life of Martin Luther King Jr. has been celebrated and discussed throughout the week. We have learned more about the important work he engaged in during his time on earth. But that work is not complete. Inequality is still very real. All people are not treated fairly. Just look at faces of some people in Haiti, in Flint, Michigan, and even in Holland, Michigan. We have much to learn and many walls to break down. At Holland Christian, we have more growth to achieve in the realm of this understanding, but we are intentionally working to lead and equip our children to take up this cause. We must love God and love others and when we do that, we help mend this broken world. Let's never stop growing and learning and dreaming about seeing a little piece of Heaven here on Earth!

It was a joy to welcome prospective families to our Discovery Night this week. Please join me in praying for families as they seek the right educational home to partner in the growth of their young children.

Report Cards

Report cards come home with all of your children, K-6, today. Even though you have online access, we have printed a hard copy for each of you. We encourage you to take some time to read these report cards, talk about them with your students. Celebrate the great growth and accomplishments reflected. Encourage and support where that may be needed, too. We don't have conferences at the quarter, but you may contact your child's teacher, certainly, if you have any questions. We love to see your child grow in every way!

Walk for Warmth and South Side’s Wellness Wednesday
Every February, the Ottawa County Community Action Agency puts together a fundraising event to help support families who have received a shut-off notice for their utilities at home. This event is called Walk for Warmth and takes place in Zeeland on February 13th. While we certainly cannot bring all of our students to walk the milage at this event, we do put in many miles collectively during our recesses on Wellness Wednesday. We, at South Side, would like to put these initiatives together to support families! What a horrific time of year to be without heat or utilities at home! At South Side we will commit to calculate our miles at recess over the next three weeks. Would you be willing to sponsor your child by sending coins to school? Or allow your child to collect and bring coins to school? Every penny will go directly to the Ottawa County Community Action Agency in order to help families pay the balance of their bill so children can be safe, comfortable and warm in their homes as well. We will begin this collection on Monday, February 1. More details and photos will be forthcoming.

School Closings
Stay tuned to WOOD-TV8 and WZZM-13 for school cancellations.  You may also register online with either station to receive notices via email, phone, or text. This notice is also available through Power School, our school data base program.

HC Showcase-2016
"Doo-Wop: A Night of Song, Dance, and Nonsense Syllables" Come join the Living Hope Singers for a fun night of solos, duets, and group numbers from the Doo-Wop era. Showcase 2016 will be held on Friday and Saturday, March 18 and 19, 2016 at 7:00 pm in the Holland Christian Fine Arts Auditorium. Reserved tickets are available online at www.hollandchristian.org/livinghope for $10. Order tickets early for the best seats! (High school student general admission $8 tickets will be sold two week prior to the show during the lunch hours.)   Benjamin's Hope will receive $1 from each ticket sold.  For more information, contact Tam Treffers at 616-218-9181 or treffers@charter.net.

2016-17 Kindergarten Enrollment
Kindergarten is an amazing year filled with exploration and discovery of God’s world! 2016-17 kindergarten enrollment opens to the public February 3, but families with children already in Holland Christian Schools prek-12th grade may enroll early beginning Tuesday, February 2, at hollandchristian.org/apply. (Important! We are not able to process registrations submitted prior to February 2.)

We will again be offering 3-Day+ and 5 Day classes. Children will need to be 5-years-old by September 1, 2016, to enroll in kindergarten. Please enroll by March 1 in order for us to prepare class lists. If you have any questions about enrollment, would like a tour, or need assistance in finding the perfect fit for your child, please contact Courtney Lampen at (616) 820-2804 or clampen@hollandchristian.org.

2016-17 Preschool Enrollment
2016-17 preschool enrollment is right around the corner and we're excited to begin enrolling our youngest learners! We're again offering 3-year-old, 4-year-old, and Junior Kindergarten morning classes, afternoon enrichment classes, and before and after school care. With these options, parents can create a fully customized schedule, ranging from part-time to full-time enrollment, that best meets their family's needs. Learn more at: hollandchristian.org/schools/preschool

Preschool enrollment opens to the public February 10, but families with children already at Holland Christian Schools prek-12th grade may enroll beginning Tuesday, February 9. Go to hollandchristian.org/apply, create a username and password of your choice, and complete the requested information to enroll in the class you'd like. Important! We are not able to process applications received prior to February 9. Preschool enrollment requires a $75 deposit.

Makers Week
During the week of February 22, your child will be engaged in Makers' Week at both Pine Ridge and South Side. During Makers' Week, all students will be involved in engineering and/or technology-based projects. Our students will work side-by-side with teammates from all grades within their building 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

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.:

      Mismatched Day -  January 27                                   Hat Day -                February 3


ACE News
South Side  & Pine Ridge
​The ACE classes at SS and PR will continue through Thursday, February 18​, and we will use our February 25 ​make up date if classes are canceled due to weather​.​  ​Thank you in advance for ​picking up​ your child​ promptly at ​4:55pm. You may contact Krista Seabolt at kseabolt@hollandchristian.org with questions.

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

Reminder of Ski Club Dates:               Jan.  22             Feb. 5 & 19         March 4

Dress for the Weather
Please be sure to send your child with a jacket, hat,snow pants, and  mittens, etc.  We do not have enough 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!

Box Tops
The next submission will sent in on February 29.  Please have your collected Box Tops into either school by February 26.    If you would please keep an eye on the expiration date , it will help those preparing the Box Tops for mailing.

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!

Family Fun Night
Clue #1 - "One fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish"   Hmmm.... got you wondering? Well, for now just mark your calendar for Friday, March 18 from 5:30 - 8:00 for Family Fun Night at Pine Ridge.  More information coming soon!

Advanced notice: The Athletic Department of Holland Christian Schools is offering students entering grades 7-12 the opportunity to complete a state required physical. Sports Physicals will be held on Tuesday, April 19, 6:30 - 9 pm at Lakeshore Health Partners located at 904 South Washington Avenue.  Physical will cost $15 this year. We will again be using SignupGenius for scheduling appointments online.  Please look for the link to be sent in an upcoming email.

Calendar of Events

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    13                Walk for Warmth event
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

Requested Announcements

Kinder Dutch Dance Signups have begun
Tulip Time will be coming up quickly!  Being sent home today with 3rd - 5th Graders is information on Kinder Dutch Dance.  Please review the information and come enjoy the fun! Home Page | Tulip Time, May 7-14, 2016 - Holland, Michigan.  or contact Nicole Prins at  Nicole@tuliptime.com

Baton Twirling Classes
Come join the fun and learn how to twirl a baton!  Baton twirling is making a comeback as the latest and greatest sensation!  Don’t miss out on all the fun!  Pink information sheets were sent home today for Preschool - 2nd, the 3rd-6th graders should have received the forms last week.  For more information go to:  http://www.athleticsensations.com/ or contact Athletic Sensations (616) 460.1747 or email:  athleticsens@aol.com.

Discovery, January 15, 2016

I am not very good at trivia. I never listened to much music growing up, so I don’t know a lot about bands, songs, or even the genres of music. I watched some T.V. and a few movies over the years, but not to the point where I can quote characters or know the catch phrases that made it into mainstream vocabulary. I did enjoy the first original Star Wars movie, so when my daughters and my nieces and nephews decided to see “Star Wars The Force Awakens” this past Christmas break, I could not resist the opportunity to plug back in, even though it has been thirty years. When the audience cheered the return of the Millennium Falcon, Hans Solo, Chewbacca, Princess Leia, I was thinking, Wow! they look old! Well, maybe not Chewbacca.  Time does not stand still and things change.

As we host prospective parents on Tuesday, January 19, at South Side, this is a new generation of not only parents but students too. These preschoolers and kindergarten students will graduate in the year 2029. I wonder how things will change in the span of their years at HC.

None of us know what the future holds for these children, but one thing that does not change is God’s faithfulness to us. Let’s pray that God will once again bless us with new students at Holland Christian, a place where we can provide an education that looks toward tomorrow and, no matter the changes that life brings, offers students the tools to explore, to encourage curiosity, and to meet challenges and transform the world for Christ.



School Closings
Stay tuned to WOOD-TV8 and WZZM-13 for school cancellations.  You may also register online with either station to receive notices via email, phone, or text. This notice is also available through Power School, our school data base program.

HC Showcase-2016
"Doo-Wop: A Night of Song, Dance, and Nonsense Syllables" Come join the Living Hope Singers for a fun night of solos, duets, and group numbers from the Doo-Wop era. Showcase 2016 will be held on Friday and Saturday, March 18 and 19, 2016 at 7:00 pm in the Holland Christian Fine Arts Auditorium. Reserved tickets are available online at www.hollandchristian.org/livinghope for $10. Order tickets early for the best seats! (High school student general admission $8 tickets will be sold two week prior to the show during the lunch hours.)   Benjamin's Hope will receive $1 from each ticket sold.  For more information, contact Tam Treffers at 616-218-9181 or treffers@charter.net.

Discovery Nights Next Week! 
If you know a family considering HC for preschool or kindergarten next fall, our Discovery Nights are a great way to learn more! These nights will be held January 19 at South Side and January 21 at Rose Park from 6-7:30 pm. Childcare is provided. It's an excellent way to experience a glimpse into the great things that happen at HC. Invite your friends - you are Holland Christian's best sales force!

2016-17 Kindergarten Enrollment
Kindergarten is an amazing year filled with exploration and discovery of God’s world! 2016-17 kindergarten enrollment opens to the public February 3, but families with children already in Holland Christian Schools prek-12th grade may enroll early beginning Tuesday, February 2, at hollandchristian.org/apply. (Important! We are not able to process registrations submitted prior to February 2.)

We will again be offering 3-Day+ and 5 Day classes. Children will need to be 5-years-old by September 1, 2016, to enroll in kindergarten. Please enroll by March 1 in order for us to prepare class lists. If you have any questions about enrollment, would like a tour, or need assistance in finding the perfect fit for your child, please contact Courtney Lampen at (616) 820-2804 or clampen@hollandchristian.org.


2016-17 Preschool Enrollment
2016-17 preschool enrollment is right around the corner and we're excited to begin enrolling our youngest learners! We're again offering 3-year-old, 4-year-old, and Junior Kindergarten morning classes, afternoon enrichment classes, and before and after school care. With these options, parents can create a fully customized schedule, ranging from part-time to full-time enrollment, that best meets their family's needs. Learn more at: hollandchristian.org/schools/preschool

Preschool enrollment opens to the public February 10, but families with children already at Holland Christian Schools prek-12th grade may enroll beginning Tuesday, February 9. Go to hollandchristian.org/apply, create a username and password of your choice, and complete the requested information to enroll in the class you'd like. Important! We are not able to process applications received prior to February 9. Preschool enrollment requires a $75 deposit.


Makers Week
During the week of February 22, your child will be engaged in Makers' Week at both Pine Ridge and South Side. During Makers' Week, all students will be involved in engineering and/or technology-based projects. Our students will work side-by-side with teammates from all grades within their building 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

Lacrosse Meeting for 3rd - 6th Grades
We will be holding an informational meeting on Monday,January 18th, at 7pm at HCHS Lecture Hall for all 3rd-6th graders interested in playing HC lacrosse.

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.:

Crazy Hair Day -    January 20
Mismatched Day -  January 27
Hat Day -                February 3


ACE News  
South Side  & Pine Ridge
​We ​kicked off the LEGOS MOTORS & MORE JR. (SS) and BEADAZZLED and SPORTS SPECTACULAR (PR) class ​yesterday!   The ACE classes at SS and PR will continue through Thursday, February 18​, and we will use our February 25 ​make up date if classes are canceled due to weather​.​  ​Thank you in advance for ​picking up​ your child​ promptly at ​4:55pm. You may contact Krista Seabolt at kseabolt@hollandchristian.org with questions.

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

Reminder of Ski Club Dates:
Today's Ski club is canceled for 6th grade due to weather.
Please keep these dates on your calendar :   Jan.   22    Feb. 5 & 19       March 4

Dress for the Weather
Please be sure to send your child with a jacket, hat, snow pants, and  mittens, etc.  We do not have enough 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 10, 17 and 24.  Please Contact Laura in the office.  616.820.3505 or lnorman@hollandchristian.org.

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!

Family Fun Night
Clue #1 - "One fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish"   Hmmm.... got you wondering? Well, for now just mark your calendar for Friday, March 18 from 5:30 - 8:00 for Family Fun Night at Pine Ridge.  More information coming soon!

CALENDAR OF EVENTS
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

Requested Announcements

Kinder Dutch Dance Signups have begun.  
Tulip Time will be coming up quickly!  Being sent home today with 3rd - 5th Graders is information on Kinder Dutch Dance.  Please review the information and come enjoy the fun! Home Page | Tulip Time, May 7-14, 2016 - or contact Nicole Prins  at Nicole@tuliptime.com

Baton Twirling Classes
Come join the fun and learn how to twirl a baton!  Baton twirling is making a comeback as the latest and greatest sensation!  Don’t miss out on all the fun!  Pink information sheets will be sent home today for 3rd-6th graders.  For more information go to:  http://www.athleticsensations.com/ or contact Athletic Sensations (616) 460-1747 or email:  athleticsens@aol.com.