Category: Forest School Newsletter

Dear Forest Friends,

Even as the world at large seems to be ever frustrated and fractured, our Forest Kids are launching into one of the most stunning of seasons in Michigan. Our children are quite immune to the worldly discord as they are surrounded every day by evidence of God’s majesty and beauty. As they engage with each other and explore creation under the leadership of their loving teachers, may they be blessed to grow in awe and gratitude of our all powerful and providential God of restoration, order, sanctification and love. I pray the words of the Heidelberg Catechism question and answer 27 offer truth and hope to you, each of our families:

Question 27: What do you mean by the providence of God?

Answer: Providence is the almighty, ever-present power of God by which he still upholds, as though with his own hand, heaven and earth and all creatures, and so governs them

that leaf and blade,

rain and drought,

fruitful and lean years,

food and drink,

health and sickness,

riches and poverty

— indeed, all things, come to us not by chance but from his fatherly hand.

All hope and peace be yours, friends.

Miska Rynsburger

Announcements

Student Life and Discipleship (SLD)

All of the school building communities at Holland Christian are creating and implementing a new initiative we call Student Life and Discipleship (SLD). Preschool through 12th grade, our students learn what they can expect of us and are taught what is expected of them as we learn to do life together and seek to bring glory to God. We directly teach our Forest Kids how to ride the bus safely, how to worship in chapel, how to safely hike as a class, how to care for one another and how to enjoy play and learning in the Forest. When we see children living into the expectations, we celebrate their effort! When we see them fall short, we offer grace, restoration and a renewed opportunity.

In quarter one of this school year, each grade is focusing on one particular Discipleship Practice:

Shhh….toward the end of October we have a very special surprise celebration planned for our students’ efforts and care. Ask your child about our pinning ceremony! We’ll be sure to share proud pictures with you!

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parent-teacher conferences will take place on Thursday, October 16 from 4-8pm and Monday, October 20 from 4-8pm. This is a great time to connect with your child’s teacher and discover how the year has begun for your child. You can find all the details on how to sign up in the all-school newsletter emailed to you.

Late Arrival & Early Pick-Up

Please remember to let both the office and your child’s teacher know if your student is going to be late or leaving during our school day. Also, please make sure to sign your student in and out with our attendance form.

Food Services

Please remember to keep an eye on your child’s lunch account.

Picture Day

Picture retakes will be October 6 for kindergarten & 1st grade. Please remember to turn in your original pictures if you wish to have retakes.

2nd grade retakes will be taken on October 30 at Pine Ridge. Again, please remember to turn in your original pictures if you wish to have retakes.

Absences

Please call the school office at 616.820.3505 or email the office any time before 8:30am to let us know each day your child will be absent. You may leave a voicemail any time and it will be checked in the morning when the office opens. Please leave any symptoms your sick child may have; this information is a requirement for us to report to the county!

Moms in Prayer

Moms in Prayer is a great way to connect with other moms, pray for your child, and have an impact on the school. Please join us on Fridays at Providence Church from 8:30-9:30am. Please email Nicole Shook with questions.

Mentor Parents

Have a question or would you like advice from an experienced Forest parent? We are blessed with Mentor Parents at each grade level. They are eager to receive your questions and connect with you.

• Christy Jones: Kindergarten Mentor Parent: Parent of Dock (3rd grade), Charlotte (2nd grade) and Etta (Kindergarten)
• Wonder Compton: 1st Grade Mentor Parent: Parent of Reagan (3rd grade), Carson 1st grade, Quinn and Brooks
• Meagan Cotton: 2nd Grade Mentor Parent: Parent of Nathan (2nd grade) and Kate (6th grade)

Elementary Handbook

The Elementary Handbook is a great resource for parents providing important details on things like our curriculum, discipline policy, etc.

Important Website Links

• School Calendar
• School Supply Lists
• Hot Lunch Information
• Medical Information & Forms
• School Transportation
• Before & After School Programs

Upcoming Dates:

View the full Holland Christian calendar

October

• 11: Report cards
• 17: Parent-teacher conferences
• 21:Parent-teacher conferences
• 23: No school: Professional development
• 24-25: No school: CEA Convention

November

• 27-29: No school: Thanksgiving Break

Dear Forest Families,

Thank you for all of your support, prayers, feedback and commitment at the start of this new school year. Together we are grateful for a smooth launch to all that God has in store for us together in 25-26! It is an absolute JOY to have our learning spaces filled with the LIFE your children bring to us! I pray that our relationship continues to be marked in truth, respect, care and love.

Speaking of caring for one another, I have a unique request to share with you as we’re building habits this school year. As a community, we deeply appreciate our teachers and all they do to pour into the lives of our children. It’s a tall task they’re engaged in and they each serve so faithfully. The calling of teaching has changed dramatically in the digital era. You, as parents, and I, as their administrator, can access our teachers’ attention around the clock, seven days a week if we so desire. Teachers do work evenings and weekends. However, a full inbox, particularly on a Sunday, means our dedicated teachers may not be able to celebrate the God-given gift of restoration and rejuvenation on the Sabbath.

My request to you: Could we all commit to messaging our teachers when necessary using the “schedule send” feature when we’re thinking of something or raising a need in the off hours? If we all limit our communication to their working day, utilizing schedule send in the off hours, we’ll be able, together, to allow teachers to enjoy tech-free moments in the evenings and particularly on Sundays. If and when you have an imminent need on a particular topic, would you please message me at mrynsburger@hollandchristian.org? I will help as I am able and then, together, we’ll connect with our teacher at the appropriate time.

All joy and thanksgiving,

Miska

Announcements

Walkathon

What is Walkathon? Walkathon is an HC-wide fundraiser where elementary students walk to raise money for their school. The funds raised by K-2 Forest School students go directly to Forest needs. These needs include classroom supplies, educational outings, and other resources. Parents are welcome to watch the event from the bleachers, while the track is reserved for teachers and students.

Walkathon forms will be sent home in your child’s backpack soon and are due back by Wednesday, September 18. The Walkathon event will take place at on Wednesday, September 24. Thank you for helping to keep our Forest School thriving!

Enrollment/Medical Paperwork 25-26

Thank you so much for all the forms and paperwork you have turned in. If you have any questions, please email the office!

Food Services

Please remember to keep an eye on your child’s lunch account. If you do NOT have a family portal account set up, you will need your student’s ID number. Please email Sue for your student ID number. There is no fee to deposit money into your child’s account with a debit or credit card.

Picture Day

Forest School’s kindergarten & 1st grade picture day is September 4, and order forms were sent home with students. If you are ordering a yearbook, this will be the time to do that also. Please note that each form is child-specific, so please make sure each child has their own form. Picture retakes will be October 6 for kindergarten & 1st grade.

2nd Forest Kids’ school pictures will be taken on September 18 at Pine Ridge. Forms will be coming home soon for these!

Pine Ridge/2nd Grade Forest School Car Line Reminders:

• Always use the Graafscaap Road/60th Street entrance and exit please!
• Always pull ALL THE WAY up to the bike racks (or the car in front of you).
• Never stop in the traffic circle. This is for buses AND in case of an emergency.
• Parent pickup is in front of school; it is not at the baseball fields
• Please use your hazard lights at pickup and leave them on until your student is in the car

Absences

Please call the school office at 616.820.3505 or email the office any time before 8:30am to let us know each day your child will be absent. You may leave a voicemail any time and it will be checked in the morning when the office opens. Please leave any symptoms your sick child may have; this information is a requirement for us to report to the county!

Student Safety

After the school day is underway, all doors will be locked. All students who arrive late for school must notify the school office. This policy also applies to picking a student up from school. Please be sure to inform both your student’s teacher AND the office.

Moms in Prayer

Moms In Prayer will be starting back up again this school year on September 5 at Providence Church (across from the middle school) 8:30-9:30am. We look forward to welcoming any moms who would like to partner in prayer for this school year! Please email Nicole Shook for any questions.

Parent Teacher Conferences

Parent teacher conferences will be October 17 and 21. More information will be coming later this month.

Elementary Handbook

The Elementary Handbook is a great resource for parents providing important details on things like our curriculum, discipline policy, etc.

Important Website Links

• School Calendar
• School Supply Lists
• Hot Lunch Information
• Medical Information & Forms
• School Transportation
• Before & After School Programs

Upcoming Dates:

View the full Holland Christian calendar

September

• 1: No school Labor Day
• 4: K & 1st Picture Day
• 19: 2nd grade Picture Day
• 24: Walkathon

October

• 6: K & 1st Picture Retakes
• 16: Parent-teacher conferences
• 20:Parent-teacher conferences
• 22-24: No school: CEA Convention
• 29: 2nd grade Picture Retakes

Dear Forest Families,

After a beautiful summer of restoration, adventures, new ideas, and many relaxing walks with God, we’re gearing up for the 25.26 school year with so much joy and excitement! We pray summer has been (and still is!!!) a blessing for your family as well! In our partnership between home and school this year we will be unpacking our school theme “The Joy of the Lord.” For our tender children’s hearts and growth, let’s do this together. If you’re able, please find a quiet moment in your day to prayerfully consider these words from our HC Director of Faith Formation, Bryant Russ, regarding our theme. This is the learning and ponderings we get to bring to your child all year:

The LORD’s joy is woven throughout Scripture and creation itself. From the very beginning, joy permeates all that
God made, as seen in the refrain of Genesis 1—“And God saw that it was good” (Genesis 1:4, 12, 18, 21, 25).
Divine joy is the source of strength for God’s people, as Nehemiah reminded the Israelites: “The joy of the Lord is
your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). Psalm 16 declares that fullness of joy is found in found only in God’s presence (v.
11). Even Jesus, in the face of terrible suffering, was empowered to endure the cross “for the joy set before him”
(Hebrews 12:2). In his letter to the church in Rome, Paul says that God fills His people with joy and peace as we
trust in Him, resulting in an overflow of hope through the power of the Holy Spirit (Romans 15:13).
…I wonder if we’ve underestimated the God of the Bible. Is “joy” one of the first words that comes to mind
when we think of God? It should be! Pastor John Mark Comer said that, likewise “Joy is the defining feature of a life
organized around God.”

What if the joy of the LORD became the defining characteristic of our school system?
What if joy permeated conversations on the playground, in classrooms, and in our homes?
What if the joy enabled the kind of vulnerability that builds authentic community?
What if joy gave a context for hardship, allowing us to do difficult things with courage?
What if joy paved the way for generosity, humility, and service?
What if joy laid the foundation for worshipful curiosity and inspired lifelong discovery?

Let’s come close to God together this year, so that His joy permeates everything that we do!

Yours in partnership,
Miska

“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy” (Psalm 16:11)

Announcements

Forest Family Updates

We are grateful to announce two new staff positions:

• Beth Bull is taking the role as lead teacher in first grade.
• Melissa Sedjo will be joining Beth in her classroom as teacher assistant for our first graders.

Enrollment/Medical Paperwork 25-26

All students entering kindergarten as well as new transfers have a variety of paperwork that needs to be filled out and turned in as soon as possible! Students will not be allowed to attend their first day unless all paperwork has been turned in!

Please be sure your child is up to date on all immunizations, and if you are pursuing an immunization waiver through your county health department, please call them for an appointment ASAP as appointments fill up quickly, and it needs to be done before attending the first day of school. If you have any questions, please email us!

Waiver Information:

If your child is a new student coming to HC from a different school district, your old waiver is invalid and you will need to schedule an appointment.

If your child with a waiver is returning student to Holland Christian for the 24-25 school year and moving from:

• preschool to kindergarten: New waiver needed; schedule an appointment.
• Young 5s to kindergarten: Current waiver on file is good unless you have chosen to complete a vaccine series during the year that was waived on the waiver.

Contact the Pine Ridge school office if you have any questions at 616.820.3505 or email us.

Summer Office Hours

The Pine Ridge/Forest School office will be open starting August 4 on Mondays-Fridays from 9am-3pm until school starts. There will be a few dates TBD for beginning of the school year all-staff off-site meetings, and those dates will be posted on the door once they become available.

Food Services

Family portal accounts will be ready to receive deposits on Monday, August 11. If you do NOT have a family portal account set up, you will need your student’s ID number. Please email Sue for your student ID number. There is no fee to deposit money into your child’s account with a debit or credit card.

Medications at School

If your child needs to take medication at school–either prescription or over the counter (including inhalers!)–we need an updated form signed by their physician each school year. If you have not done this yet, please do so ASAP so it is ready by the first day of school. The necessary form is on our Medical Information & Forms page.

If you have questions, you may also contact Holland Christian’s school nurse, Hendrina Cupery. She will help you set up a plan for the office to assist in administering the medication. For safety reasons, Holland Christian Schools is not able to dispense any medication to our students without a doctor’s order. Thank you!

Class Lists & School Supplies

We are so excited to welcome your child back to school! Below you will find the links for class lists and school supply lists per class and/or grade level.

• 25-26 Forest School Class Lists
• Kindergarten-2nd Grade Forest School Supply Lists

Back to School Night:

This will be a time to come and check out your child’s classroom WITH your child. They can meet their teachers, deliver supplies and get the layout of where they will be this year.

• Kindergarten + First Grade at the cabins: August 14 from 6-7pm
• Second Grade starting and finishing at Pine Ridge (with a bus ride to the Ridge): August 12, 6:15-7:30pm

Parent Night:

This evening is a time for parents only to learn about the goals, routines and helpful partnership expectations from your child’s teacher.

• Forest School Kindergarten: Monday, August 25, 6pm in kindergarten cabins, for parents only
• Forest School 1st grade: Monday, August 25, 6:30pm in 1st grade cabins, for parents only

First Day of School

Our first day of school is a full day, Tuesday, August 19. The day begins in the classroom at 8:20am. Dismissal will be at the following times:

• K-1st grade students will be dismissed at 3:20pm at our cabin campus (880 Ottawa Avenue)
• Second grade students will be dismissed at 3:15pm at Pine Ridge Elementary School (we affectionally call this our “depot”)

Before & After School Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures

We ask that you adhere to the following traffic policies for Drop-Off and Pick-Up as specified. We appreciate your cooperation and doing your part to keep our children entering and exiting school safely each day!

Picture Day

For those of you really planning ahead, Forest School’s K & 1 picture day is September 4. Once order forms are received from GPI they will be sent home with students. If you are ordering a yearbook this will be the time to do that also. Second Grade Forest Kids’ school pictures will be taken on September 18 at Pine Ridge.

Absences

Please call the school office at 616.820.3505 or email us any time before 8:30am to let us know each day your child will be absent for any reason. You may leave a voicemail any time and it will be checked in the morning when the office opens. Please list any symptoms your sick child may have, as this information is a requirement for us to report to the county!

Transportation

Busing is available for some students needing transportation to and from Forest School or Pine Ridge. For complete busing details and to register, please visit our Transportation page.

Student Safety

After the school day is underway, all doors will be locked. All students who arrive late for school must notify the school office. This policy also applies to picking a student up from school. Please be sure to inform both your student’s teacher AND the office.

Moms in Prayer

Moms in Prayer is a great way to connect with other moms, pray for your child, and have an impact on the school. Please join us on Fridays, starting September 6th at Providence Church from 8:30-9:30am. Please email Nicole Shook with questions.

PowerSchool

PowerSchool is our student information database. You will want to bookmark this site! There is also an app available for PowerSchool for your phone which can be very helpful. If there is a change in your phone number or address any time during the school year, it is important that we are informed right away. Parents can update their information on PowerSchool directly on the Demographics Change tab. This assures up-to-date contact information for your child.

Please update your demographic information in PowerSchool each fall with your latest and most accurate contact information. Simply log in, then either an “update demographic screen” will automatically pop up, or simply click the “change demographics” button on the left of the screen. This information is necessary for field trip participation, emergency response and treatment, student photo permission, and for the office to easily be able to contact a parent or guardian as needed or desired. When listing your child’s emergency contacts, please be sure to list two contacts other than yourself.

Elementary Handbook

The Elementary Handbook is a great resource for parents providing important details on things like our curriculum, discipline policy, technology policy, etc.

Important Website Links

• School Calendar
• School Supply Lists
• Hot Lunch Information
• Medical Information & Forms
• School Transportation
• Before & After School Programs

Upcoming Dates:

View the full Holland Christian calendar

August

• 12: 2nd grade parent+student Night @ 6:15-7:30pm starting and ending at Pine Ridge.
• 14: Kindergarten & 1st Grade Parent+Student Open House @ 6-7pm
• 19: 1st day of school
• 25: K & 1st Parent Information Night 6pm (K) & 6:30pm (1st)
• 29: No school: Labor Day

September

• 1: No school Labor Day
• 4: K & 1st Picture Day
• 18: 2nd grade Picture Day

Dear Families,

As we bring this school year to a close, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to each of you for the incredible support, prayers, kindness, and partnership you’ve shown throughout the year. It has truly been a joy to walk alongside your children as they’ve grown, learned, and blossomed in so many beautiful ways.

Thank you for the trust you’ve placed in us and for the authentic friendships we’ve shared along the way. Your encouragement and involvement have made this year not just successful, but truly special.

As summer begins, we send our blessings your way. May these months be filled with laughter, rest, sunshine, and sweet moments that become treasured family memories. Whether you’re exploring new places or simply enjoying time at home together, we pray your days are filled with joy and connection.

Yours in Christ’s service,

Miska

Announcements

Mr. Ken

We are so grateful God brought Mr. Ken to our Forest. He offers his expertise in curriculum, joy in nature and deep faith in our Father. He is a treasured mentor for our Forest Kids and staff! At the close of this school year, Mr. Ken will be discerning God’s next calling in his life. We give God gratitude for the shaping and love he contributed to our Forest story. May God continue to bless you richly, Mr. Ken!

Mrs. Bull

Mrs. Bull has served faithfully in our first grade Forest School cabin for four years. She is a certified teacher with years of teaching experience prior to joining the Forest. Mrs. Bull is overjoyed to serve our students and school as our new first grade teacher! Thank you for growing with us, Mrs. Bull!

Class Lists for 25-26

The 25-26 class lists will be available and sent out via email the beginning of July.

Forest School North Side Shuttle

Beginning this fall, we will begin offering a shuttle service for our Forest School families who reside on the northside of Holland! Before school pick up will be at Rose Park Elementary at 8:05 am to bring students to the Forest School Cabins and Pine Ridge.

Afternoon drop off details will be announced later this summer. The fee for this service is $170 per student, regardless of usage. Families must register for North Side Forest School Transportation by July 1st.

Medical Paperwork 25-26

Any medication prescription or OTC including an inhaler needs a signed form from the doctor before the first day of school.

• Medication Forms

Waiver Information:

If your child with a waiver is returning to Holland Christian for the 25-26 school year and moving between grades (kindergarten-5th), your current waiver on file is good unless you have chosen to complete a vaccine series during the year that was waived on the waiver. This does include moving between Holland Christian Schools (Forest School, Pine Ridge, South Side and Rose Park).

If your child is a new student coming to HC from a different school district, your old waiver is invalid and you will need to schedule an appointment.

All paperwork is due August 8th. This gives the office time to process everything before the 1st day. If your child doesn’t have their forms turned in, they will not permitted to start on August 19th.

Summer Office Hours

June 5-12: The office (located at Pine Ridge) will be open from 9am-3pm to assist parents. Thursday, June 5 the office will be closed in the morning due to an off-site staff meeting.

August 4: The office will reopen daily from 9am-3pm, and then resume regular office hours when school begins. There will be a few dates TBD for beginning of the school year all-staff off-site meetings, and those dates will be posted on the door once they become available.

Food Services

Please remember to double check your child’s lunch account and add funds if needed.

Before/After School Care: 2025-26

The doors at Pine Ridge open at 7:50 each school morning and students are dismissed at 3:15 each afternoon. If you need care before this time or after 3:30pm, please check out the Before/After School Programs.

Important Website Links

• School calendar
• School transportation
• Food Services/Lunch menus

Upcoming Dates

June

• 4: 1/2 day: Last day of school

August

• 12: 2nd Grade classroom visit 6:00-7:00
• 14: K & 1st classroom visit 6:00-7:00
• 19: First day of school!

As God begins to wake up seemingly all of creation in springtime, one of our particularly observant students noted something rather profound while digging in the soft soil. She noted that often times, when new life begins, it first goes down into the dirt with lacy tendrils as roots begins to pull nutrition from the earth. We don’t even realize this is taking place below our feet! Life underground gathers hold quietly the dark and gains strength. When God’s timing is right, green shoots burst into the light from below.

“That’s like what happens on hard days when we just need to sit with God to feel all better again.”

“Wow. Yeah. That’s exactly the place we need to go on the hard days to pull strength from God. Thank you for that lesson. I’ll remember this illustration forever.”

God reveals so much to us in creation. Like our fledglings in the faith may we pause. Listen. Pray. Like this little child with innocent love, may our lacy, fragile tendrils of faith forever reach to our Father for strength and life that we too might burst forth giving glory to our Maker.

Yours in Christ’s service,

Miska

Announcements

Class Lists for 25-26

As we look to the new year our team also begins planning for the 2025-2026 school year. We will soon be in the process of creating class lists. Many staff members put a great deal of effort into creating balanced lists for the upcoming school year. Children are paired with teachers and friends in an environment that allows for new relationships to form and flourish. Our priority is each child would be placed in the best learning environment to meet their developing needs. Among other criteria we weigh the following when carefully creating a new class community:

• Academic progress/needs
• Relational values/needs with teachers’ style
• Behavioral balance
• Friend balance/new friends

We deeply value your partnership and input but, in order to create a balanced class community, we are not able to accept teacher requests. We commit to give our best to provide each child with a healthy, balanced home away from home and thank you for your understanding.

Kindergarten Visit

We are welcoming the parents of our new 25-26 school year Forest Kindergarteners! Incoming kindergarten parents are invited to meet with us in the Forest School chapel, which is near our cabins at 880 Ottawa Avenue, at 4pm on Thursday, May 1. We’re excited to meet and welcome new and familiar friends!

Tulip Time ’25

On Thursday, May 8, our 1st-4th graders will participate in the Tulip Time Kinderparade. We will have a normal school schedule in the morning: kindergarteners will be dismissed at 11:30am. Busing will not run! 1st-4th graders will remain at school until we load the buses to head to the parade route. They will eat lunch at school before heading to the parade. There will be no hot lunch.

An information sheet and pick up slip was sent home with your child. Please return this slip to your child’s teacher ASAP if you have not done so already, and please keep an eye on your email the week of Tulip Time (May 5-9) for correspondence about parade reminders.

Grandparents Day

Important Website Links

• School calendar
• School transportation
• Food Services/Lunch menus

Upcoming Dates

May

• 1: Kindergarten visit day at 4pm
• 2: Grandparents’ Day (K-2)
• 8: 1/2 day: Tulip Time Parade (1st and 2nd graders stay for parade)
• 22: Field Day
• 26:  No school: Memorial Day

June

• 4: 1/2 day: Last day of school

Dear Forest Friends,

Most of us think of Easter as a single day, but did you know that many Christians around the world celebrate Jesus’ victory over death for an entire season? This is called Eastertide! We are holding our second annual All-School Eastertide Celebration this spring. On April 23 we’re gathering to proclaim that JESUS IS ALIVE, and we have new life in Him! Be sure to ask your child to share all about the celebration.

Christ is risen, He is risen indeed!

Miska

Announcements

Thank You

Thank you so much for taking the time out of your busy schedules to meet with teachers for conferences. What a wonderful time of celebrating all the growth that has already happened this year!

Grandparents/friends Day Friday, May 2

Tulip Time Is Coming!

1st and 2nd grade parents, please fill out the Tulip Time Choices 2025 Form to indicate your student’s participation and attire for the Kinderparade on May 9th.

Class Lists for 25-26

As we look to the new year our team also begins planning for the 2025-2026 school year. We will soon be in the process of creating class lists. Many staff members put a great deal of effort into creating balanced lists for the upcoming school year. Children are paired with teachers and friends in an environment that allows for new relationships to form and flourish. Our priority is each child would be placed in the best learning environment to meet their developing needs. Among other criteria we weigh the following when carefully creating a new class community:

• Academic progress/needs
• Relational values/needs with teachers’ style
• Behavioral balance
• Friend balance/new friends

We deeply value your partnership and input but, in order to create a balanced class community, we are not able to accept teacher requests. We commit to give our best to provide each child with a healthy, balanced home away from home and thank you for your understanding.

Important Website Links

• School calendar
• School transportation
• Food Services/Lunch menus

April

• 14: Classes resume

May

• 1: Kindergarten visit day @ 4pm
• 2: Grandparents’ Day (K-2)
• 8: 1/2 day: Tulip Time Parade (1st and 2nd graders stay for parade.)
• 22: Field Day
• 26:  No school: Memorial Day

June

• 5: 1/2 day: Last day of school

The promise of springtime is in the air! Can you feel it too? Daylight is stretching longer into the morning and evening. Birds seems to be singing more enthusiastically. Temperatures are warming. There might be no more beautiful time of year in the Forest than springtime after a cold winter in my opinion. God is unfurling tiny miracles of life and majestic displays of grandeur and our children have a front row seat!

For behold, the winter is past; the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth, the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land. —Song of Solomon 2:11-12

All warmth and joy,

Miska

Announcements

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Spring parent-teacher conferences will be on March 20 and 25. More details and signup information will be coming as we get closer.

Swimming Lessons

Our Holland Aquatic Center is providing swim lessons for us again this year! I recognize this program is a little uncomfortable for some children and families especially if it’s new and unfamiliar to you. Because our children are blessed to be raised in Michigan, surrounded by bodies of water, we believe this safety instruction is a blessing that we pray they will never need but feel responsible to equip them. If you find yourself pondering over the “why” of lessons, please take a listen to HC mom Jenny White on the why for swim safety. HCAC Swim School welcome video will help you understand a bit about the logistics. Our 1st-2nd graders will be bused to the pool each day the weeks of March 17-28.

• 9-10 am: 2nd Grade
• 10-11 am: 1st Grade

Enrollment for 2025-26

Continuous enrollment begins after kindergarten. As a continuous enrollment school, this means, in an effort to simplify the process for our current K-12 families, you will not need to re-apply every year once your child is in kindergarten. We are happy that you are a part of the Holland Christian family and our hope and plan is that you will continue partnering with us in the years to come! New-to-Holland-Christian families who are interested in enrolling for the 2025-26 school year can do so by applying at dev.hollandchristian.org/apply on Monday, February 3 starting at 9am.

Illness Reminders

Please remember that we do have a 24-hour policy for any fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. For colds and coughs, please use your discretion as we know these things can linger.

Absences

Please call 616.820.3505 or email the school office EVEN IF you have let your student’s teacher know any time before 8:30am to let us know each day your child will be absent. You may leave a voicemail at any time and it will be checked in the morning when the office opens.

Important Website Links

• School calendar
• School Supply Lists
• Hot Lunch Information
• Medical Information & Forms
• School Transportation
• Before & After School Programs
• Elementary Handbook
• PowerSchool

Upcoming Dates:

March

• 14: End of 3rd quarter
• 15: Kids stuff resale 9am-12pm @ HCHS
• 20: Parent-teacher conferences 4-8pm
• 25: Parent-teacher conferences 4-8pm

April

• 4-13:  No school: Spring break
• 14: School resumes

“I have shifted from pursuing adventures of a lifetime towards a lifetime of just trying to live a little more adventurously every day.” ~Alastair Humphreys

What joy to behold our Forest Kids thriving as they explore, wonder, and connect with God’s creation outdoors. From discovering the beauty of a simple leaf to marveling at the vast sky above, every moment is an opportunity to grow in awe of the Creator and find our place in His story. We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering prayers, love, and support from our dedicated staff and YOU, our families, whose partnership makes this journey of faith and learning possible. Together, we are fostering a love for the world God made, and it’s truly a gift to witness our students flourishing in such a vibrant, hands-on environment.

All joy and wonder,

Miska

Announcements

Wacky Wednesdays

Forest Kids, we have TWO more Wacky Wednesday left:

February 5 – Hat Day
February 12 – PJ Day (Snow day make up!)

Let’s finish strong!

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Spring parent-teacher conferences will be on March 20 and 25. More details and signup information will be coming as we get closer.

Forest Family Night Hike

We hope you can join us for a special evening in the forest with your family from 6-7:30pm on Thursday, February 20! The FS Parent Board has planned a nighttime hike at the FS campus. Families are encouraged to bring headlamps/flashlights and sleds depending on weather conditions. No RSVP necessary for this event.

Swimming Lessons

Our Holland Aquatic Center is providing swim lessons for us again this year! I recognize this program is a little uncomfortable for some children and families especially if it’s new and unfamiliar to you. Because our children are blessed to be raised in Michigan, surrounded by bodies of water, we believe this safety instruction is a blessing that we pray they will never need but feel responsible to equip them. If you find yourself pondering over the “why” of lessons, please take a listen to HC mom Jenny White on the why for swim safety. HCAC Swim School welcome video will help you understand a bit about the logistics. Our 1st-2nd graders will be bused to the pool each day the weeks of March 17-28.

• 9-10 am: 2nd Grade
• 10-11 am: 1st Grade

Enrollment for 2025-26

Continuous enrollment begins after kindergarten. As a continuous enrollment school, this means, in an effort to simplify the process for our current K-12 families, you will not need to re-apply every year once your child is in kindergarten. We are happy that you are a part of the Holland Christian family and our hope and plan is that you will continue partnering with us in the years to come! New-to-Holland-Christian families who are interested in enrolling for the 2025-26 school year can do so by applying at dev.hollandchristian.org/apply on Monday, February 3 starting at 9am.

Illness Reminders

Please remember that we do have a 24-hour policy for any fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. For colds and coughs, please use your discretion as we know these things can linger.

Absences

Please call 616.820.3505 or email the school office EVEN IF you have let your student’s teacher know any time before 8:30am to let us know each day your child will be absent. You may leave a voicemail at any time and it will be checked in the morning when the office opens.

Lunar New Year Community Celebration

February 7 from 5-7:30pm at the Holland Fish and Game Club. Join us as we celebrate the Lunar New Year! All are invited to this family-friendly event with cultural activities and food for purchase: Crafts and games, performances, Dragon Dance, red envelope give away and Asian food!

Family Fun Math Night at Hope College

Hope College is hosting a Family Math Fun Festival on Saturday, March 8, 10 am – 12 pm on campus that is free and open to families with children in grades K-8. The festival features a wide variety of interactive low-floor, high-ceiling tasks that will engage families in creative problem solving that won’t even feel like mathematics! They’ll also be giving away goody bags to all participants with math games and other school supplies.

Important Website Links

• School calendar
• School Supply Lists
• Hot Lunch Information
• Medical Information & Forms
• School Transportation
• Before & After School Programs
• Elementary Handbook
• PowerSchool

Upcoming Dates:

February

• 3: Preschool and kindergarten 2025-26 application open for new families at 9am
• 14: No school (teacher professional learning)
• 17: No school (Presidents Day)

March

• 14: End of 3rd quarter
• 15: Kids stuff resale 9am-12pm @ HCHS
• 20: Parent-teacher conferences 4-8pm
• 25: Parent-teacher conferences 4-8pm

April

• 4-13:  No school: Spring break
• 14: School resumes

The Reformed Journal recently published an inspiring article about the gift of wonder. Blaine Crawford reflects that, as adults, we have a tendency at this time of year in particular to keep a tight schedule and routine. We steer our children away from mud and puddles and paths less taken. We mentally calculate the number of loads of laundry and the time necessary to clean up. Our adult world is efficient, mechanized, overly-scheduled. Our world is flattened.

“For most of us that clear-eyed vision, that true instinct for what is beautiful and awe-inspiring, is dimmed and even lost before we reach adulthood,” but a child’s world is “fresh and new and beautiful, full of wonder and excitement.”

And so, this Advent, take a walk outside to the forest or the seashore.

Better yet, take a child with you.
Delay dinner an hour and savor the setting sun.
Get up early to glimpse the crystallized frost on fallen leaves.
Stay up late to watch the stars light up the darkened sky.
If it snows, do not delay. Run outside to dance and play.
Become like a little child,
enter the Kingdom of God,
rightly astonished by the wonders God has shown you.”

May you bask together in the wonder and beauty of the gift of Jesus Christ. Merry Christmas and happy, healthy new year to each of you.

Much love and joy,

Miska

Announcements

Gadgets for Christmas

Just in case a child receives a smart device or personal tech with connectivity, we want to remind you of our policy to uphold healthy learning spaces throughout HC to the best of our ability.

Personal Technology: Personal Technology is not necessary in a school setting and disrupts the learning environment. Personal Technology includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Cell Phones
• Smartwatches
• Headphones or Earbuds
• Personal Laptops
• MP3-Players
• Etc. (i.e. Any non-school issued personal technology)

If parents need to communicate with their student, they can send their student an email or call the office and get a note from the office. Personal Technology items are not allowed to be used or visible during the time a student enters school until the final bell rings. If a student needs to use their phone, they must receive direct permission from a staff person to do so.

Absences & Appointments

Please call the school office at 616.820.3505 or email the Pine Ridge Office any time before 8:30am to let us know each day your child will be absent. You may leave a voicemail any time and it will be checked in the morning when the office opens. Please leave any symptoms your sick child may have; this information is a requirement for us to report to the county! Also, please note that we do have a 24-hour policy for any fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. For colds and coughs, please use your discretion as we know these things can linger.

Please inform the office of any appointments or early dismissal/late arrival information. That helps us make sure your student is ready for pickup or let’s us know they are coming later and are accounted for. All students must be signed in and out if coming after class has started or before the last bell. 

Swimming Lessons

These lessons are provided at the Holland Aquatic Center. Holland Christian elementary students have the privilege of receiving swimming lessons each year through the Holland Aquatic Center. These lessons are provided  during the school day for 2 weeks. We recognize that this program could be a little uncomfortable for children. Because our children are blessed to be raised in Michigan, surrounded by bodies of water, we believe this safety instruction is a blessing that we pray they will never need, but that we still feel responsible to equip them with. If you find yourself pondering over the “why” of lessons, please listen to HC mom Jenny White on the why swim safety. This HCAC Swim School welcome video can help you understand a bit about the logistics. Any questions please feel free to contact the office.

Swimming lessons will be happening March 17- 28 for 1st and 2nd graders this year!

2nd Grade Lost and Found

Don’t forget about the lost and found table at Pine Ridge! If your student is missing something, please check the photo album online or stop in and check it in person.

Pine Ridge Carpool Line

Please remember that you may only turn right out of the parking lot between 3:15-3:45 so we can still get cars in and out as quickly and safely as possible!

Also, remember to pull ALL the way up to the bike rack even if the weather isn’t ideal for pickup AND dropoff so we can fit as many cars in as possible. We cannot stop in the circle for any reason during those times.

AND please watch out for pedestrians and kids on bikes crossing the street!

Food Services

Please remember to keep an eye on your child’s lunch account.

Moms in Prayer

Moms in Prayer is a great way to connect with other moms, pray for your child, and have an impact on the school. Please join us on Fridays at Providence Church from 8:30-9:30am. Please email Nicole Shook with questions.

Elementary Handbook

The Elementary Handbook is a great resource for parents providing important details on things like our curriculum, discipline policy, etc.

Important Website Links

• School Calendar
• School Supply Lists
• Hot Lunch Information
• Medical Information & Forms
• School Transportation
• Before & After School Programs

Upcoming Dates:

View the full Holland Christian calendar

January:

• 1-3: No school: Christmas Vacation
• 6: Back to School!
• 15-17: Hearing & Vision testing 2nd Grade
• 17: K-5th Report Cards go live!
• 20: No school: MLK Day

February:

• 14: No school: Staff PD
• 17: No school: Winter Break

One of my favorite moments to peek in on our classroom families is morning devotions during Advent season. It’s  quite typical for classroom families to gather together in a darkened classroom with only the glow of a small light centering the children. Tones are hushed as they listen to the promise of the coming Messiah. Come, Lord Jesus, come. How grateful I am that this is a “normal” day’s start for our children in their formative years as they are establishing their patterns and rhythms of life. You are in our prayers as you also lead your family through the Advent season traditions. May your rhythms, celebrations and moments often point to the coming of our Messiah both 2000 years ago and to our hearts today.

With hope,

Miska

Announcements

And Heaven and Nature Sing!

Our creative parent board has developed a special event for your family to enjoy our Forest together and celebrate the beauty of Christmas as shared in Luke 2. Join us with your family from 6-7:30pm on Thursday, December 12! We have a special craft planned for your children, a nighttime hike through Luke 2 and Christmas caroling around the campfire. In order for us to have enough materials for our crafts and hot chocolate to keep you warm, would you kindly RSVP for Heaven and Nature Sing by Friday, December 6. Hope to see you there!

Christmas Spirit Week

To get into the spirit of Christmas, we are going to have some fun, themed days our last week of school before Christmas Break, December 16-20. Here’s what we (along with South Side & Pine Ridge) have planned:

• 12/16   Monday: Christmas headgear (antlers, hats)
• 12/17   Tuesday: Christmas sweater
• 12/18   Wednesday: Red/green day
• 12/19   Thursday: Christmas socks
• 12/20  Friday: Christmas PJs

Thanksgiving & Christmas Breaks

• There will be no school Wednesday, November 27-Friday, November 29 so families can celebrate Thanksgiving.
• There will be no school December 23-January 5 so families can celebrate Christmas.

Scholastic Book Fair

Pine Ridge Book Fair will run December 6-12 and we are in need of parent volunteers to staff the times that are open for shopping! Interested in helping at the Book Fair? Please sign up to volunteer for the book fair.

Second graders will have the opportunity to shop with their class on Tuesday, December 10.
If your child plans to purchase books during the school day on his/her own, please send cash for them to use. The book fair has an abundance of books, but there are also pens/pencils, posters, and other fun items to purchase. It may be a good idea to talk to your child about their choices ahead of time and your expectations for their purchases. It is also important to note that SALES TAX will be added on to their purchase, so please plan accordingly.

The Book Fair will be open for families to shop Wednesday, December 11  2-4pm and Thursday, December 12  3-5:30pm. If you plan to shop with your child Wednesday or Thursday, the Book Fair will accept cash, check, or credit card. Checks can be made to Holland Christian Schools.

We appreciate your support of the book fair which supplies funds for the library!

Absences & Appointments

Please call the school office at 616.820.3505 or email the Pine Ridge Office any time before 8:30am to let us know each day your child will be absent. You may leave a voicemail any time and it will be checked in the morning when the office opens. Please leave any symptoms your sick child may have; this information is a requirement for us to report to the county! Also, please note that we do have a 24-hour policy for any fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. For colds and coughs, please use your discretion as we know these things can linger.

Please inform the office of any appointments or early dismissal/late arrival information. That helps us make sure your student is ready for pickup or let’s us know they are coming later and are accounted for. All students must be signed in and out if coming after class has started or before the last bell. 

Pine Ridge Carpool Line

Thanks for all those who have seen the “Right Turn Only” sign for after school pickups and adhered to it! For those who haven’t noticed it, please note that you may only turn right out of the parking lot between 3:15-3:45 so we can still get cars in and out as quickly and safely as possible! Also, remember to pull ALL the way up to the bike rack even if the weather isn’t ideal. AND please watch out for pedestrians and kids on bikes crossing 60th Street!

Food Services

Please remember to keep an eye on your child’s lunch account.

Moms in Prayer

Moms in Prayer is a great way to connect with other moms, pray for your child, and have an impact on the school. Please join us on Fridays at Providence Church from 8:30-9:30am. Please email Nicole Shook with questions.

Elementary Handbook

The Elementary Handbook is a great resource for parents providing important details on things like our curriculum, discipline policy, etc.

Important Website Links

• School Calendar
• School Supply Lists
• Hot Lunch Information
• Medical Information & Forms
• School Transportation
• Before & After School Programs

Upcoming Dates:

View the full Holland Christian calendar

November:

• 27-29: No school: Thanksgiving break

December:

• 23-Jan 3: No school: Christmas vacation