Category: Rose Park Newsletter

Rose Park Families,

What a joy it is to have your children back at school! It has been a fantastic first few days, and it is wonderful to see your children settling into their new classrooms, spaces, and routines. There is such excitement in the building as we begin a new year together!

The beginning of a school year is a time for learning and practicing. We are practicing not only academics, but also how we live and learn together. We spend time reviewing routines and expectations so that everyone knows how to navigate our new spaces, care for one another, and be a positive part of our school community. These small daily practices help create a place where every child can learn, grow, and flourish.

One of Holland Christian’s discipleship practices is God Glorifying, and it is a meaningful one to focus on as we begin the year. We want to be people who glorify God in all we do—in our words and actions, as we worship, play, learn, and grow in relationship with one another. What a beautiful opportunity we have to encourage our children to see that even the ordinary moments of a school day can be ways to honor and reflect God!

Blessings to each of you,

Katelyn Roskamp

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 Rose Park students go directly to Rose Park needs. These needs include classroom supplies, educational outings, and other resources. Last year’s donations helped contribute to updates to our greenhouse, barn maintenance, teacher appreciation and support. Parents are welcome to watch the event from the bleachers, while the track is reserved for teachersand students.

Walkathon forms will be sent home in your child’s backpack soon and are due back by Thursday, September 17. The Walkathon event will take place on Wednesday, September 23. Thank you for support to keep Rose Park thriving!

Convocation

Our WHOLE HC community will come together in the high school gym to worship, celebrate and reflect on the rich blessings God has granted us THIS year and the past 125 years! What a joy to see our three-year-olds worshiping right along with our BIG high school seniors. This all school worship will take place on Wednesday, September 9 at 9:30am!

Grandparents Day

Please invite your child’s grandparents and special friends to a special morning at Rose Park on Thursday, October 1! We’re planning a beautiful celebration of the love and support that enriches our students’ lives. Watch your classroom teacher’s blog for a detailed schedule coming soon. We’re excited to open our doors and hearts in joyful gathering as we thank God for His blessings through the people who care for us.

Save the Date for our Rose Park Fall Festival

Put it on your calendar for Thursday, September 24 from 5:30-7pm. Our parent board is planning some fun activities for your family to enjoy, meet new friends, and celebrate our beautiful playscape and ranch. Please register on our Fall Fest page.

Weekend Ranch Hands

If your family loves animals, Rose Park, and might have a few free minutes on the weekends to stop by and do barn chores we would love to teach you our procedures and put you into our weekend rotation! If this is something of interest to you or you want to learn more, please e-mail Ms. Roskamp at kroskamp@hollandchristian.org.

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. Just a friendly reminder to use your hazard l

ights to notify staff if you are still waiting on your child(ren).

Picture Day

For those of you planning ahead, Rose Park’s picture day is September 16 and 17. Order forms will be sent home with your student soon. If you are ordering a yearbook this will be the time to do that also. The class photo schedule can be viewed here.

Food Services

To deposit money into your child’s lunch account or to apply for free/reduced lunch benefits, please go to Family Portal. If you have any questions, please email Sue Lambers.

Medication at School

If your child needs to take medication at school, we need an updated form signed by their physician each school year. If you have not done this yet, please do so ASAP. The medication forms can be found on the Medical Information and Forms Page for your convenience. You are welcome to contact our school nurse, Lindsey Prentice, who 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 (prescription or non-prescription) to our students without a doctor’s order. Thank you! 

Absences

Please call the school office at 616.820.4055 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. You may also email the office, and please include a short explanation of their symptoms.

Student Safety

After the school day is underway, all doors will be locked for students’ safety. All students who arrive late for school must stop in the school office. Parents are asked to sign children in and out at the school office if they are coming or going any time within the normal school hours.

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.

Moms in Prayer

Our Rose Park Moms in Prayer group will begin meeting again this fall, and we would love to have you join us on Wednesdays mornings in the conference room.  Prayer will start at 8:30, but feel free to come at 8:15 for some social time!

Important Website Links:

• Holland Christian Calendar
• Hot lunch information
• Medical information & forms
• School transportation
• Before & After School Programs
• Rose Park Staff Favorite Things

Upcoming Dates:

September

• 4: No school
• 7: No school–Labor Day
• 9: Convocation 9:30am
• 16 & 17: School pictures
• 17: Walkathon packets due back
• 23: Walkathon
• 24: Fall Fest 5:30-7pm

October

• 1: Grandparents Day
• 8: Parent Teacher Conferences 4-8pm
• 12: Parent Teacher Conferences 4-8pm
• 21: Picure Retakes

Rose Park Families,

I hope you’ve enjoyed a fantastic summer! What fun it is to explore all of God’s beautiful creation here in Michigan. From beaches and parks to backyard adventures and special family memories, I hope you’ve had time to soak it all in and enjoy this season together!

As we’ve turned our calendars to August, we are excited and busy preparing for a wonderful new school year ahead. A new year always brings a mix of excitement, anticipation, and perhaps even a few nerves. I pray that as your children think about moving up to the next grade level or coming to Rose Park for the first time, they quickly find a home here and know just how deeply loved, valued, and cared for they are by our wonderful staff.

This year is especially meaningful as Holland Christian begins celebrating its 125th year. What a milestone to celebrate together as we reflect on God’s faithfulness through the generations. Our theme this year is His Love Endures Forever, and we are thankful for the truth of those words as we celebrate God’s faithfulness to our school throughout this special year.

As we look ahead to all that God has in store, I am looking forward to seeing everyone at the Ice Cream Social on August 20 from 6:00–7:00 p.m. It will be a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with friends, meet new families, and visit each classroom as we joyfully kick off another year together!

Blessings to each of you,

Katelyn Roskamp

Announcements

Back to School Details:

• Class Lists – were emailed to you on August 3rd!
• School Supply List
• HCS District School Calendar
• Carpool Instructions

Please Welcome!

We are excited to have Grace VanderHill and Yvette Sibley join our staff at Rose Park this year, please read more about them in their bios here!

Parent Information Night

We are excited to welcome parents to meet the teachers, ask questions, and get more detailed information for the upcoming school year!

Please join us on Thursday, August 27 from 6-7:20.

• 6:00-6:20–Y5 through 2nd grade parents will meet with classroom teachers
• 6:20-6:50–All parents for an overview with Ms Roskamp
• 7:00-7:20–preschool and grades 3-5 parents will meet with classroom teachers

Ice Cream Social

We are hosting the back to school Ice Cream Social on August 20 from 6-7 pm.  This is a great time for students to see their new classroom, meet their teacher, bring their school supplies, and reunite with friends!

First Day of School

Our first day of school is Tuesday, August 25.  It will be a full day with a regular schedule, doors unlock at 7:55 for morning drop off, and the first bell rings to start the day at 8:10!

Food Services

To deposit money into your child’s lunch account or to apply for free/reduced lunch benefits, please go to Family Portal. If you have any questions, please email Sue Lambers.

Enrollment & Medical Paperwork 26-27

All students entering preschool, kindergarten, and new transfers have a variety of paperwork that needs to be filled out and turned in by August 8, 2025:

• Preschool Forms
• Young 5s/Kindergarten Forms
• New Transfer Forms

Please be sure your child entering these grades is up to date on all immunizations or see below for non-medical exemptions. These documents are due to the Rose Park office by Wednesday, August 7. Alternatively, they can be dropped off at the administration office on 40th Street.

Non-Medical Exemptions (Formerly Waivers) Information:

If your child is a new student coming to HC from a different school district, your old non-medical exemption is invalid, and you will need to schedule an appointment. If your child currently has a non-medical exemption and is returning to Holland Christian for the 26-27 school year and moving from:

• 3s preschool to 4s preschool: The current non-medical exemption on file is good unless you have chosen to complete a vaccine series during the year that was waived on the non-medical exemption.
• 3s/4s preschool to Young 5s: New non-medical exemption needed; please schedule an appointment.
• 4s preschool to kindergarten or Young 5’s: New non-medical exemption needed; schedule an appointment ASAP at your county health department.
• Young 5s to Kindergarten: Current non-medical exemption on file is good unless you have chosen to complete a vaccine series during the year that was waived on the non-medical exemption.

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.

School Pictures

For those of you really planning ahead, Rose Park picture day is September 16-17. Once order forms are received from GPI they will be sent home with students. If you plan to order a yearbook, please make sure to do that at the beginning of the year!

Absences

Please call the school office at 616.820.4055 or email us any time before 8:30 am 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

Transportation

For complete busing details, 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 check in at the front 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 at rp@hollandchristian.org.

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.

You must 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.

Moms in Prayer

Our Rose Park Moms in Prayer group will begin meeting again this fall, and we would love to have you join us on Wednesdays after drop-off in the Rose Park conference room. We meet for about 45 minutes, using Moms in Prayer guides to lead us through adoration, silent confession, thanksgiving, and supplication. We also pray Scripture over our children, as well as the teachers and staff at Rose Park.

I have been part of this group for the past three years, and it has had a profound impact on my prayer life. Taking time to praise God alongside other women has been such a gift, bringing a renewed perspective even on difficult mornings. It is also an encouragement to have others pray for my children and a privilege to do the same for theirs.

If you have any questions about Moms in Prayer, please feel free to call or text.

Amanda DeVries
(616) 201-7402

Barn Chores

We are looking for families who are interested in caring for our animals (2 goats and 3 chickens) on the weekends! If your family would be interested in participating in this fun adventure, please let Ms. Roskamp know!

Important Website Links:

• Holland Christian Calendar
• Hot lunch information
• Medical information & forms
• School transportation
• Before & After School Programs
• Rose Park Staff Favorite Things

Upcoming Dates:

August

• 20: Ice Cream Social 6-7pm
• 25: First day of school
• 27: Parent Information Night 6-7:20pm

September

• 4: No School
• 7: No School–Labor Day

Rose Park Families,

What a fantastic school year we’ve had! As we near the close of the year, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to each of you. Thank you for your partnership, conversations, involvement, care, and love for our school community.

It is such a blessing to walk alongside one another as we watch each student grow, learn, and discover more about themselves, others, and God’s world. We are deeply grateful for the trust you place in us each day.

We hope your summer is filled with rest, joy, and meaningful time together. We look forward to welcoming you back in August and picking up right where we left off! See you then!

Blessings,

Katelyn Roskamp

Announcements

Student Life and Discipleship

As we reflect on this school year, we are grateful for the opportunity to focus each month on our discipleship practices. It has been a joy to watch every child grow in learning what it means to walk like Jesus.

I pray your summer is filled with meaningful moments as you see your children living as image bearers, kingdom builders, grace breathers, creation keepers, and so much more. We look forward to seeing how God continues to grow and shape them into who He has created them to be.

Book Fair Thank You

Thank you to Jasmine Irish and Rachel Haan and the many volunteers who coordinated and hosted our book fair this year! Thank you to the many families who stopped by and purchased new books! With the profit we were able to purchase hundreds of new books for our Rose Park library including high interest fiction at a variety of reading levels, curriculum related nonfiction, and Spanish language materials.

Class Lists and Staffing Details

We are waiting for enrollment numbers to be finalized in order to confirm section numbers and teachers at each grade level. As soon as we are able, we will share teacher’s names with you in all of our kindergarten through fifth grade classes. Our expectation is to publish class lists for you early in July. Thank you for your patience and trust in this important process.

Gratitude to Departing Rose Park Staff

We are incredibly grateful to Ms. Julie Raak for her 37 years of faithful service to Holland Christian in a variety of roles. Her dedication, care, and lasting impact on our community have been a true blessing. As she begins this exciting new chapter in retirement, we wish her joy, rest, and many wonderful adventures ahead.

We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Maestra Keren Fuentes for the passion and warmth she brought to our 5th grade Spanish Immersion program over the past three years. Her investment in students and love for teaching have made a meaningful difference in our school community. We wish her all the best as she steps into a new season ahead.

Medication Pick Up

If your child has medication at school, an email will be coming to you regarding pick up. Medication is not stored at school through the summer. All medications need to be picked up by our last day of school, June 3.

Yearbook Orders

Our 25-26 yearbooks will be distributed the last week of school to those who ordered them. These orders were placed during our school picture days. If you missed ordering your child a yearbook for this year, and you would still like to, you may still order a yearbook through Geskus Photography.

Rose Park Lost and Found

Please take a minute to stop in the office to see if any of the items belong to your student. These items will soon be donated.

Enrollment & Medical Paperwork 26-27

All students entering preschool, kindergarten, and new transfers have a variety of paperwork that needs to be filled out and turned in by August 8, 2025:

• Preschool Forms
• Young 5s/Kindergarten Forms
• New Transfer Forms

Please be sure your child entering these grades is up to date on all immunizations or see below for non-medical exemptions. These documents are due to the Rose Park office by Wednesday, August 7. Alternatively, they can be dropped off at the administration office on 40th Street.

Non-Medical Exemptions (Formerly Waivers) Information:

If your child is a new student coming to HC from a different school district, your old non-medical exemption is invalid, and you will need to schedule an appointment. If your child currently has a non-medical exemption and is returning to Holland Christian for the 26-27 school year and moving from:

• 3s preschool to 4s preschool: The current non-medical exemption on file is good unless you have chosen to complete a vaccine series during the year that was waived on the non-medical exemption.
• 3s/4s preschool to Young 5s: New non-medical exemption needed; please schedule an appointment.
• 4s preschool to kindergarten or Young 5’s: New non-medical exemption needed; schedule an appointment ASAP at your county health department.
• Young 5s to Kindergarten: Current non-medical exemption on file is good unless you have chosen to complete a vaccine series during the year that was waived on the non-medical exemption.

Rose Park Office Hours

Monday, August 3: The office will reopen daily from 9-noon, and then resume regular office hours when school begins.

Supply Lists

Keep an eye out for sales this summer! A draft of our supply lists for the 26-27 school year might help you get started!

Important Website Links:

• Holland Christian Calendar
• Hot lunch information
• Medical information & forms
• School transportation
• Before & After School Programs
• Rose Park Staff Favorite Things

Upcoming Dates:

June

• 3: Last day of school 1/2 day
  • Preschool celebration at 9am
  • Final chapel at 10:30am
  • Y5-5th grade dismissal at 11:30am
• 5: Report cards go live

August

• 18: Preschool Meet the Teacher Night
• 20: Ice Cream Social 6pm
• 25: First day of school
• 27: Parent Information Night

Rose Park Families,
Happy Spring! This is such a beautiful and busy time of year, and my guess is you’re feeling it too. With sunshine, fresh energy, and lots of smiles, we are soaking in these final weeks of the school year together.

It has truly been a fantastic year at Rose Park, and we are so grateful for your partnership. As we look ahead, there is still so much to enjoy and celebrate in the month of May. In the weeks to come, our students are looking forward to field trips, swim lessons, Tulip Time festivities, and many meaningful end-of-year moments in the classroom.

This season also brings a wonderful opportunity to reflect on how much our students have grown academically, socially, and spiritually. We are proud of their hard work and are excited to finish the year strong together!

Blessings,
Katelyn Roskamp

Announcements

Student Life and Discipleship

In April, we turned our attention to our discipleship practice creation keeping. This is a fun one for students as it’s a tangible way to discuss and discover how to care for the wonderful world God has created. Throughout the last few weeks, students have had meaningful conversations about what it looks like to be faithful stewards of God’s wonderful creation, putting their learning into action in simple, everyday ways.

As we look to the end of the year we will focus on our discipleship practice of kingdom building in May. Students will practice seeking God’s Kingdom first by inviting Christ’s rule and reign into every aspect of their lives. We look forward to talking about all of the ways we can put God on display as we end our year together!

Kinderparade & Tulip Time

1st-4th grade students are looking forward to marching in the Tulip Time Kinderparade on Thursday, May 7. We will have a normal school schedule in the morning. Preschoolers will be dismissed at their normal time (11:15am) with no afternoon enrichment. Kindergarten and 5th graders will be dismissed at 11:30am. Students in grades 1-4 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, so please send a sack lunch to school with them.

An information sheet and pick up slip was sent home with your child. Please return this slip to your child’s teacher ASAP. Thank you.

Our Y5, K, and 5th grade non-parade participants will be dismissed at 11:30am on May 7, while all others will remain at school to eat lunch and board buses for the parade.

4th Grade Plant Sale

The annual fourth grade plant sale is coming to Rose Park on May 21 starting at 7:30am. They will be selling tomatoes, peppers, and a variety of herbs. All plants will be $3 per pot, cash or check only.

Y5 + Kindergarten Visit Day

On Friday, May 1, we will be welcoming our newest group of young fives and kindergarteners to Rose Park for a visit! The incoming students and their parents will meet at Rose Park from 9-10am. Families who enrolled should have received an email with more details.

Important Website Links:

• • Holland Christian Calendar
  • Hot lunch information  (and May Menu)
  • Medical information & forms
  • School transportation
  • Before & After School Programs
  • Rose Park Staff Favorite Things

Upcoming Dates:

May

• 1: Y5 & Kindergarten Visit Day
• 1-8: Swim lessons (excluding May 7)
• 7: 1/2 day of school
  • 11:30am dismissal for kindergarten and 5th grade (see info above)
  • Tulip Time Kinderparade 1st-4th grades (see info above)
• 13: Senior Walk (celebrating our Rose Park alumni!)
• 21: 4th Grade Plant Sale at Rose Park 7:30am
• 25: Memorial Day: No school
• 27: Field Day & Ms. Raak’s retirement celebration (see info above)

June

• 3: Last Day of School 1/2 day
  • • Preschool celebration at 9am
    • Final Chapel at 10:30am
    • Y5-5th Grade dismissal at 11:30am

Rose Park Families,

As we walk through the Lenten season we are often invited to slow down, reflect, and open our hearts to the working of the Holy Spirit as we prepare for Easter. As spring slowly arrives in Michigan, we are also reminded of the beauty of new life and the promises of flowers in bloom and warmer days ahead. Both point us to renewal, another of our Holland Christian values. Renewal invites us to humbly participate in the mission and ministry of Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Our current season calls us to live with intention and a renewed sense of purpose, embracing each day as an opportunity to grow in faith, serve others with humility, and walk in step with Christ. As we step into the final stretch of the school year, I pray that we have many opportunities to practice renewal in our homes and classrooms!

I’m looking forward to all that spring holds. I hope you are too!

Blessings,

Katelyn Roskamp

Announcements

Student Life and Discipleship

In the month of March, we focused on our discipleship practices of disciple making and beauty creating. We have been discussing the importance of being people who live into the great commission and who look for beauty in the world around us. We also had an all school celebration of “pie the principal.” What fun it is to celebrate positive behavior as a school community!

In April, we will turn our attention to creation keeping. This is a fun one for students as it’s a tangible way to discuss and discover how to care for the wonderful world God has created. During this month, students will practice stewardship of creation by cultivating and preserving the world that’s been entrusted to us. 

Kinderparade

It’s time to think about Tulip Time! If you haven’t already, 1st-4th grade families, please complete the costume preference form to indicate your family’s preference for costumes during our Kinderparade on Thursday, May 7. Please complete this ASAP! If you have a 5th grade student who is interested in carrying a banner in the parade we would love to have them join us; look for information upcoming! Our Y5, K, and 5th grade non-parade participants will be dismissed at 11:30am on May 7, while all others will remain at school to eat lunch and board buses for the parade.

Exciting news: We have a new book fair company this year—Literati—and the online fair is officially live! Shopping online is a great way to find books that might not be available at the in-person fair. It’s also the best way to purchase from teacher wishlists, since some of those titles may not be available at the in-person book fair. A special bonus: Gift cards are available online! This makes it easy for students to shop at the in person book fair without bringing cash to school. You can start browsing online already, and then plan for the in-person hours listed below. Happy reading! 

On Thursday, April 23 we will host “Lunch with a Loved One” from 11:15-12:15 in the small gym. This is a time to join your student(s) for lunch and to shop the book fair together!

Additional in-person book fair hours will be: Wednesday April 22 from 2-4pm, Thursday April 23 from 10:30-12:30 & 2-4pm, Friday April 24 from 2-4pm;  we would love to have you stop by at any of those times!

5th Grade Families

Save the Date: April 23. Holland Christian Middle School invites 5th grade parents to come to our Spring Launch Night! Meet the staff, hear about the academic and extra curricular opportunities, and get a head start on understanding the transition to the middle school. More details to come as we get closer.

Important Website Links:

• • Holland Christian Calendar
  • Hot lunch information  (and April Menu)
  • Medical information & forms
  • School transportation
  • Before & After School Programs

Upcoming Dates:

April

• 3-10: No school: Spring vacation
• 23: 6th Grade (Parent) Launch Night at HCMS
• 22-24: Book Fair at Rose Park
• 27-30: Swim lessons

May

• 1-8: Swim lessons (excluding May 7)
• 7: 1/2 day of school, 11:30 dismissal for kindergarten and 5th grade
• 7: Tulip Time Kinderparade 1st-4th grades (afternoon)
• 21: 4th Grade Plant Sale at Rose Park (morning)
• 25: Memorial Day: No school

June

• 3: Last Day of School 1/2 day

Rose Park Families,

Each month we’ve been focusing on one of our Holland Christian values, and this month I want to share a bit about discipleship with you. As we root our identity and purpose in Christ we want to be more like Him, emulating both his character and teachings.  In our classrooms, our discipleship practices are woven in and through lessons each day, giving our students tangible ways to practice living like Jesus.

In 5th grade Math I watched students discover order in their learning, giving praise to God for the way he creates patterns in their equations. Students frequently pick up trash around school or the playground and we discuss creation keeping. Many students have also been great examples of servant living and image reflecting as they help others and reflect God’s image to those around them.

Thank you for partnering with us as we nurture students who are learning not just to know about Jesus, but to truly walk in His ways.

Blessings to you,

Katelyn Roskamp

Announcements

Student Life and Discipleship

In the month of February, we focused on our discipleship practice of grace breathing. We have been discussing the importance of being people who inhale and exhale grace as we live in community with one another.

In March, we will turn our attention to disciple making. During this month, we will talk about following Jesus and pointing others to Christ through our words and actions. We will focus on the great commission given to us in Matthew 28.

Learning Opportunities 

The ODC Network is launching a meaningful 4-part speaker series in 2026 featuring nationally-renowned experts who will explore how technology is reshaping our lives and offer practical ways to restore balance for ourselves, our families, and our communities.

Through the generosity of local donors, tickets for the talks in Holland are free (one per email address) and can you can reserve your free ticket online.

• March 3, Dr. Scott Sampson, “The Coming Nature-Rich Urban Communities”
• March 17, Lenore Skenazy, “Raising Kids in a Digital World”

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Spring parent-teacher conferences will be on Thursday, March 26 and Monday, March 30. Sign-ups should have landed in your e-mail a few weeks back!

Important Website Links:

• • Holland Christian Calendar
  • Hot lunch information  (and March Menu)
  • Medical information & forms
  • School transportation
  • Before & After School Programs

Upcoming Dates:

March

• 7: Kids Stuff Resale at HCHS
• 13: End of Quarter 3
• 16: No school
• 20: Report cards
• 26: Parent-teacher conferences
• 30: Parent-teacher conferences

April

• 3-10: No school: Spring vacation
• 23: 6th Grade (Parent) Launch Night at HCMS
• 22-24: Book Fair at Rose Park
• 27-May 8: Swim lessons

Rose Park Families,
There is nothing I love more than the time I spend in classrooms and out at recess at Rose Park. Even in the cold of winter there are students who run up to share: “Come check this out!” or “Look what we’re doing!” In classrooms, out at recess, and during many in-between-moments of the day I am invited into what your students are learning and observing. This is the joy of childhood–exploring and discovering–and yet it’s also an opportunity to practice hospitality, the Holland Christian value we are focusing on as we enter February!

Each fall the first grades host Sukkot and I receive a special invitation into their learning, specifically around hospitality. In December a group of third graders begged me to attend music class with them for the day. Teachers and students catch me in the hall and ask “Do you have a minute to see what we’re up to?”  All invitations to become a part of something. This is the joy of learning hospitality that in big and small ways we begin to develop a new skill, to give and receive grace, and to build relationships both inside of our school and out.

In February, I invite you to join us in practicing hospitality at home and in our community by noticing opportunities, big and small, to welcome others, extend grace, and make room for relationship.

Blessings to you,
Katelyn

Announcements

Student Life and Discipleship

In the month of January, we focused on our discipleship practice of image reflecting. We discussed how important it is to be people who reflect God’s image to the world around us. Our prayer is that students come to know deeply and truly who God is, are able to see His image in the world around them, and are able to reflect God by being a light in our world.

In February, we will turn our attention to grace breathing. During this month, we will talk about extending grace just as God gives it to us. We can think of this like breathing: as we inhale, we receive grace from God, and as we exhale, we breathe it out to the world around us.

Continuous Enrollment Reminder

As of January 2026, preschool is now a part of HC’s Continuous Enrollment, which means that once a student is enrolled at HC, they remain enrolled automatically each year until they graduate or are formally withdrawn from HC. With this enrollment change, currently enrolled preschool and currently enrolled young five students will no longer be required to reapply for the following academic school year. An easier-to-fill-out Commitment Countdown form has emailed to those families (PK & YK only) to help us plan for next year.

New-to-Holland-Christian-families who are interested in enrolling for the 2026-27 school year can do so by applying at dev.hollandchristian.org/apply on Monday, February 2 starting at 9am.

Learning Opportunities 

The ODC Network is launching a meaningful 4-part speaker series in 2026 featuring nationally-renowned experts who will explore how technology is reshaping our lives and offer practical ways to restore balance for ourselves, our families, and our communities.

Through the generosity of local donors, tickets for the talks in Holland are free (one per email address) and can you can  Reserve your free ticket online.

• Feb 12, Katherine Martinko, “Navigating Technology with Purpose”

• Mar 3, Dr. Scott Sampson, “The Coming Nature-Rich Urban Communities”

  

• Mar 17, Lenore Skenazy, “Raising Kids in a Digital World”

Run Club

Rose Park’s Running Club is back this spring! We begin February 17, meeting Tuesdays and Thursdays, and finish with the Tulip Time 5K on May 2. Open to all 3rd-5th grade students who want to get moving. Sign up for Run Club!

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Spring parent-teacher conferences will be on Thursday, March 26 and Monday, March 30. More details and signup information will be coming as we get closer.

Important Website Links:

• • Holland Christian Calendar
  • Hot lunch information  (and February Menu)
  • School supply lists
  • Medical information & forms
  • School transportation
  • Before & After School Programs

Upcoming Dates:

February

• 13: No school: Teacher professional learning day
• 16: No school: Presidents Day

March

• 13: End of Quarter 3
• 16: No school
• 20: Report cards
• 26: Parent teacher conferences
• 30: Parent teacher conferences

April

• 3-10: No school: Spring vacation
• 23: 6th Grade (Parent) Launch Night at HCMS
• 22-24: Book Fair at Rose Park

Rose Park Families,

The excitement was palpable as I walked down the hallways over the past few weeks! Students were learning, growing, and discovering while also performing in a concert, hosting a cookie sale, providing Christmas gifts for a family in need, and spreading love throughout our community. Add in classroom parties, a door-decorating competition, and gingerbread house decorating, and December was truly full.

As I reflect on all that our students experienced and learned this month, it feels fitting to share our Holland Christian value of flourishing. Our students thrive when they are growing, serving, and engaging with their heart, mind, soul and strength. Watching them try new things and build confidence as they learn is one of my favorite ways to see this flourishing come to life. There’s a special smile that appears when a student who once felt unsure discovers they are more capable than they first believed.

A meaningful example of flourishing came during our recent chapel:

Listening to our first graders share the Christmas story in chapel, in front of all of Rose Park and many parents and grandparents, was a powerful reminder of how incredible it is that our students can memorize Luke 2 and tell the story in language they understand. What a meaningful story to carry with them for a lifetime!

Blessings to you and your family this Christmas season. I’m grateful for our community and excited for all that the new year holds!

Katelyn Roskamp

Announcements

Student Life and Discipleship

In the month of December we focussed on our discipleship practice of servant living. It’s amazing to discuss and then noticed students who find both small and big ways to love and serve at Rose Park. One teacher shared with me how a group of students in her class served our building  in a way that would have gone unnoticed if not for their peers calling out a good deed. What a blessing it is to witness your children living into these discipleship practices! When we return to school in January we will kick off the new year by talking about our discipleship practice of image reflecting. Our great hope is that our students understand that they are created in God’s image and that they can reflect that knowledge as they interact with people around them!

Gadgets for Christmas

As a friendly reminder, if your child received a smart device or personal tech with connectivity, we appreciate your support in helping us maintain healthy learning spaces throughout our school:

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.

Run Club

Rose Park’s Running Club is back this spring! We begin February 17, meeting Tuesdays and Thursdays, and finish with the Tulip Time 5K on May 2. Open to all 3rd-5th grade students who want to get moving. Sign up using this link!

Discovery Night at Rose Park

Do you or any of your friends or family have a prospective preschooler or kindergartener? Are you or someone you know looking into options for the 26-27 school year? We’ll be having our Discovery Night on January 15 from 6-7pm, and we’d love to have you come and explore Rose Park’s preschool and kindergarten programs! Since we prepare individually for each family visiting this Discovery Night, we would so appreciate your RSVP for Discovery Night.

If you are unable to make it to Discovery Night, you are still welcome to visit Holland Christian Schools in person and see things in action for yourself. Feel free to schedule a campus tour through by filling out our Inquiry Form. Enrollment for the 26-27 will begin school year begins February 1, 2026.

Preschool and Young Fives Admission Enhancements

HC has enhanced the application process for all currently enrolled 3’s preschool, 4’s preschool and young five students. Starting January 2026, currently enrolled preschool and young five students will no longer be required to re-apply for the following academic school year. Preschool is now a part of HC’s Continuous Enrollment. Instead, they will be asked to fill out a Commitment Countdown form. This Commitment Countdown form is a quick and easy way for currently enrolled preschool and young five families to let HC know what their hopes are for their child’s 2026-27 enrollment. Completing it lets Admissions know their intentions, but it does not guarantee placement or availability. The information families share will help HC thoughtfully plan for class sizes, teacher placements, and learning spaces that support every child’s academic, faith, and character growth.

Enrollment for 26-27

New Student Applications will be open to the public on Monday, February 2, 2026 at 9am.

Note: Continuous enrollment means that once a student is enrolled at HC, they remain enrolled automatically each year until they graduate or formally withdraw. This includes ALL current kindergarteners.

Unplugged Series–We’re Invited!

One of our local partners in education, Outdoor Discovery Center, is hosting a 4-part speaker series featuring nationally-renowned experts who will explore how technology is reshaping our lives. Please see the attached flyer to register for these free opportunities!

Calendar

Important Website Links

• • Hot lunch information  (and January Menu)
  • School supply lists
  • Medical information & forms
  • School transportation
  • Before & After School Programs

Upcoming Dates:

January

• 15: Discovery Night at Rose Park 6-7pm
• 5-16: NWEA MAP Testing
• 16: End of 2nd quarter/1st semester
• 19: No school MLK Day
• 23: Report cards available online

February

• 13 & 16: No school

Rose Park Families,

There are so many observable moments when your children are captivated and discovering while at school! I peek into classrooms to witness students with eyes wide as teachers read stories. I hear our incredible lunch staff share a joke as students eagerly wait for the punchline. They are engrossed in science lessons, predicting what may happen next. Your children are captivated, engaged, and eager! They are, in short, discovering more about their world, about God’s world–this is the joy of learning! Curiosity is an incredible gift. As students ask questions and discover God’s great world, our answers at Holland Christian tie directly into our faith, and our wonder is guided by the lens of scripture.

This same HC value of discovery that fills our classrooms can inspire us all to see God’s presence in every season of life. As the leaves and seasons are changing, I hope you find time to encounter the beauty that is all around us. May this season draw us closer to God, the Creator of all that is good, beautiful, and worth discovering.

Blessings to each of you,

Katelyn Roskamp

Announcements

Conferences: Thank you!

Thanks for taking the time to attend and have valuable conversations at parent-teacher conferences. What a blessing it is to partner with you as we support your students learning and growth! Thanks also to the parent board, who blessed our teachers with fantastic meals to sustain them on these long evenings!

Student Life & Discipleship

In October we focused on our discipleship practice of wisdom seeking. We talked about how we look to God for wisdom and that as we gain wisdom it helps us to make wise decisions! In November we will focus on order discovery. We will learn about God’s purposeful designs through creation and how his purposeful order brings peace to chaos!

Thanksgiving Break

There will be no school Wednesday, November 26-Friday, November 28 so families can celebrate Thanksgiving. Enjoy this special time together as a family celebrating our great God, and the many blessings in our lives.

Weather Appropriate Clothing

As the mornings have become much colder, please send your child with weather appropriate clothing for each day at school. This is especially helpful for recess and outdoor learning. Additionally, it’s a great time to practice independence in getting dressed in winter gear, and zipping coats for our younger students.

Important Website Links

• Hot lunch information  (and November Menu)
• School calendar
• School supply lists
• Medical information & forms
• School transportation
• Before & After School Programs
• Rose Park Staff Favorite Things

Upcoming Dates:

November

• 26-28: No school: Thanksgiving Break

December

• December 9: Spanish Immersion Christmas Program, 6:30pm at the High School Auditorium
• December 22-January 2: No school: Christmas Break