Category: Rose Park Newsletter

Rose Park Families,

I find the rhythms of life to be fascinating. As we enter October there is a shift into cooler weather, students settling even more into their classrooms, parent teacher conferences, and anticipation of a long weekend without school. These are rhythms that staff, families, and students become accustomed to–we welcome each changing season and feel the shift that will come as the daylight dwindles toward winter. However, last week I found myself on the hunt for seed packets–not a typical activity for this time of year. I had to stop at a few stores to find fruit and vegetable seeds we are planting in our greenhouse this month in hopes of hosting our first Greenhouse Gala this upcoming January.

We are blessed to have the greenhouse and to use it throughout the year, encouraging our students to plant seeds and watch their growth. As we do this planting we also grow patience as we wait to see the fruit and vegetables that will, in months time, create a snack we can enjoy together as a school community. What a task it is for students to learn and discover the joy of delayed gratification–of hard work that bears fruit in time. I pray also that our students are learning and growing deeper in their faith this year, that they are tucking God’s word away in their hearts for the long term, digging roots so deep that they bear fruit for years to come. It is a joy to watch this process happen, both literally in the greenhouse, and in your students hearts and lives each day!

Blessings to you,

Katelyn Roskamp

Announcements

Student Life & Discipleship

In September we focused on our discipleship practice of community growing. We talked about how we are better together! When we speak kindly, include others, and go out of our way to make our community better we show God’s love to our neighbors. We celebrated students who do a great job of living into our monthly discipleship practice by giving them a golden ticket, and having a celebratory golden lunch together! In October we will focus on wisdom seeking. We will discuss what it means to be people who seek God in all areas of our lives.

Walk-a-thon Thank You!

A huge shoutout to our amazing Parent Board for all the time and energy they put into making the 2025 Walkathon such a success! What a joy it was to see our kids out on the field—running, skipping, and just having fun together. And to you, our parents, thank you for your prayers, encouragement, and the many ways you support your child’s education here at school. We’re truly grateful to God for blessing us with such a special community.

Hispanic Heritage Month

From September 15 to October 15, we’re celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month! Our Spanish Immersion classes have been leading the way, sharing fun lessons and activities with their grade-level friends. Together, students are exploring the culture, traditions, and stories of many Spanish-speaking countries. Be sure to ask your child about the exciting activities they’ve enjoyed!

Grandparents & Grandfriends Day

Grandparents & grandfriends are invited to join us at Rose Park on the morning of Thursday, October 2! We’ll celebrate together in worship and in our classroom communities. We give thanks to God for the gift of grandparents and grandfriends! Please check your classroom teacher blog for detailed times for the program and classroom visits!

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.

CEA

Our Christian Educator Association (CEA) conference will take place on October 23 and 24, so school will not be in session on those days. Additionally, our staff is engaging in a day of professional development on Wednesday, October 22. Therefore, students will have a fall break from October 22-24. Thank you for your support as we grow our teachers, and please enjoy the long weekend!

Favorite Things

A few kind parents have asked about Rose Park teachers’ favorite things. Shh…. here are some of their favorites!

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 at any time and it will be checked in the morning when the office opens. Please be sure to include symptoms.

Important Website Links

• Food Services (hot lunch menu)
• School calendar
• School supply lists
• Hot lunch information
• Medical information & forms
• School transportation
• Before & After School Programs

Upcoming Dates:

October

• 2: Grandparents’ Day
• 16: Parent-Teacher Conferences, 4-8pm
• 20: Parent-Teacher Conferences, 4-8pm
• 13: Picture retakes – please bring in originals if retakes will be taken
• 22-24: Professional learning + CEA Convention: No school

November

• 26-28: Thanksgiving Break

Rose Park Families,

It has been a wonderful start to the year! I hope your family is settling into the rhythms and routines of days at school. Your children may be coming home tired, full of stories about new friends and exciting learning experiences with their teachers. What a joy it has been to watch them settle into their new spaces, finding trust and comfortability in each classroom family!

In the first two weeks of the school year at Rose Park, we have focused on our two overarching discipleship practices of being “word rooted” and “God glorifying.” It has been astounding to see your children talk about these things in their classrooms and in chapel. Ask your students about the “golden ticket” and who has received it in their classrooms. This is a special ticket given out for those who have lived into these discipleship practices for August!

Looking ahead to September, we will focus on our discipleship practice of “community growing!” Students will practice building stronger friendships and community as they work together in their learning and play. We will use scripture from Psalm 133 and 1 Peter 2: 9-10  to guide us in this learning. We are also excited to build community with all of you as we gather for the Rose Park Fall Fest on Thursday, September 25. Please join us as we gather for food, fellowship, and lots of fun!

Blessings,

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 teachers and students.

Walkathon forms were sent home in your child’s backpack soon and are due back by Wednesday, September 17. The Walkathon event will take place on Wednesday, September 24. Thank you for support to keep Rose Park thriving!

Grandparents Day

Please invite your child’s grandparents and special friends to a special morning at Rose Park on Thursday, October 2! 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 25 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.

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 lights 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 10 and 11. 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.

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, Hendrina Cupery 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.

Important Website Links

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

Upcoming Dates:

September

• 1: No school Labor Day
• 10 & 11: PreK-5th picture day
• 24: Walkathon

October

• 2: Grandparents Day
• 13: Picture re-takes
• 16: Parent-Teacher Conferences 4-8pm
• 20: Parent-Teacher Conferences 4-8pm
• 22-24: CEA Convention: No school

Dear Rose Park Friends,

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,

Katelyn and Miska

Announcements

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.  Here are a few staffing changes to share with you in advance of the 25-26 school year:

• Mrs. Vos will join Mrs. Winningham as the new team job-share in fifth grade
• Mrs. Barry will serve as the new full-time fifth grade teacher
• Mrs. Schebor will serve as our new first grade teacher for the additional section of classes

Gift and Gratitude

• Mrs. Gorter has faithfully served as our 504 coordinator. She has gently guided families through evaluations for children, development and implementation of plans and ensured comfort and access for students in our care. She brings wisdom and calm reassurement. Mrs. Gorter has loved each one of our children well. We thank her for her service and will miss her as she enjoys retirement.
• Maestra DeLeon is one of the founding members of our renowned Spanish Immersion program. She has helped build this program with her skill, patience, creativity and love of all children! Maestra DeLeon has an infectious laughter, a creative joy and a patient wisdom that has been such a gift in partnering with families of young children exploring a new language and culture. Thank you for your big love and years of service!
• Mrs. Steensma launched her teaching career at South Side in kindergarten and moved on to nearly all elementary grades and two of our building campuses. She is a quick friend to the parents in her classroom and the staff she supports. Mrs. Steensma has spent her career supporting learners with high expectations and mucho positivity! At times, her energy is matched only by her students. This past school year Mrs. Steensma was married and moved to a new home outside of our community. We will sorely miss Mrs. Steensma in our Rose Park family next year.

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, Wednesday, June 4.

Yearbook Orders

Our 24-25 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.

Enrollment & Medical Paperwork 25-26

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, 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. 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.

Waiver Information:

If your child with a waiver is returning to Holland Christian for the 25-26 school year and moving from:

• 3s preschool to 4s preschool: Current waiver on file is good unless you have chosen to complete a vaccine series during the year that was waived on the waiver.
• 3s/4s preschool to Young 5s: New waiver needed; please schedule an appointment!
• 4s preschool to kindergarten: New waiver needed; please 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.
• 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.

Contact the Rose Park office if you have any questions 616.820.4055.

Rose Park Office Hours

Monday, August 4: The office will reopen daily from 9am-noon, and then resume regular office hours when school begins.

Rose Park Lost & Found

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

Parent Board Members Needed

Our parent board has been phenomenally supportive for our students, staff and life at Rose Park once again this year. These helpful parents meet monthly to review the previous school events and plan for the next fun event. We have vacancies for next year and are seeking parents who are interested in joining the work! If you would like further information OR would be interested in joining the team, please email Katelyn

Supply Lists

Keep an eye out for sales this summer!  Here are the supply lists for the 25-26 school year.

Calendar

View the full Holland Christian calendar

June

• 4: 1/2 day Last day of school
• 6: Report cards available on Powerschool

August

• 12: Preschool Meet the Teacher Night
• 14: Ice Cream Social 6pm
• 19: First day of school!
• 21: Parent Information Night 6:00pm

Dear Rose Park Friends,

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 in 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,

Katelyn and 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.

Teacher Appreciation Week

We so much appreciate our amazing Rose Park teachers, and want to celebrate them and all the hard work they do each day for our children! One way to say thanks to them is by remembering that Teacher Appreciation Week May is May 5-9. If you need some ideas for how to celebrate your child’s teacher(s), here is a handy list of our staff’s Favorite Things!

Tulip Time

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. 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.

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.

Kindergarten Visit Day

On Friday, May 16, we will be welcoming our newest group of kindergarteners to Rose Park for a visit! The incoming kindergartners and their parents will meet at Rose Park from 9-10am. Families who enrolled should have received an email with more details.

4th Grade Plant Sale

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

Yearbook Orders

Our 24-25 yearbooks will be distributed the last week of school to those who ordered them last fall during our school picture days. If you would still like to order a yearbook, you may order it through Geskus.

Rose Park Lost & Found

Please take a minute to stop in and look at our Lost & Found table to see if any of the items belong to your student. Otherwise these items will be donated soon!

Hot Lunch

May 2025 Hot Lunch Menu

Calendar

View the full Holland Christian calendar

May

• 8: 1/2 day Tulip Time Parade. Kindergarten & 5th grades dismiss @ 11:30am
• 12:  4th-12th grade Orchestra Concert 7:30pm
• 16: Rose Park Kindergarten Visit Day 9-10am
• 22: 4th grade Plant Sale 7:30am-noon
• 26: No school: Memorial Day
• 28: Rose Park Field Day

June

• 4: 1/2 day: Last day of school: Preschool graduation @ 10am, all school final chapel @ 10:45am

Dear Rose Park 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!

Katelyn & 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! Our parent board provided two beautiful, nourishing meals to keep our teachers’ engines cranking. Thank you for the love and support you provide our community.

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-4th graders will be bused to the pool each day the weeks of April 14-25.

• 9-10am: 1st grade
• 10-11am: 4th grade
• 11am-12pm: 2nd grade
• 12:35-1:35pm: 3rd grade

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 8. Please complete this ASAP!

Book Fair Coming Soon!

Get ready! New books to encourage your student’s love for reading are coming April 23-25 from 11am – 4pm at the Intersection in Rose Park!

Every dollar you spend will benefit our school library directly! This is our only fundraiser to add new books to the library. Last year our library gained 300 new books because of this fundraiser! The sign up for ewallet begins on March 31 on Rose Park Book Fair Homepage.  Book Fair eWallet is a convenient digital payment account, so your child can shop the fair cash-free. Grandparents, friends, and others can contribute to the eWallet to help build your home library. We can’t wait to see your child at the Book Fair!

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 Enrollment for 25-26

HC continues to accept applications for the 25-26 school year. We encourage you to spread the word and the 25-26 Application Link to friends, family and neighbors. We thank you for being an ambassador of HC!

CHAMPS books

Spring flash sale alert! Get ready to SAVE big with our Champs Coupon Book–now only $20! For a limited time, from Monday, March 24 to Friday, April 4 grab your book packed with amazing Lakeshore coupons and regional and national discounts! Don’t miss out on this exclusive spring deal–hurry, before it’s gone! CHAMPS Coupon Books are available at your school office or purchased thru TRIP as well.

Hot Lunch

April Hot Lunch Menu

Calendar

April

• 4-13: No school: spring break
• 14-25: Swim lessons.
• 23-25: Book Fair

May

• 8: Half day: Tulip Time Parade
• 22: 4th grade plant sale
• 26: No school-Memorial Day

June

• 4:. Last day, half day

View the full Holland Christian calendar

Dear Rose Park Friends,

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 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 be yours,

Katelyn and Miska

Announcements

Lost and Found

Our lost and found table is mounting! Please stop in and take a peek at our inventory! We’re thinking about launching a buy-one-get-14-free event! 😉

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Spring parent-teacher conferences will be on March 20 and 25 from 4-8pm.

Kindergarten Enrollment for 25-26

HC continues to accept applications for the 25-26 school year. We encourage you to spread the word and the 25-26 Application Link to friends, family and neighbors. We thank you for being an ambassador of HC!

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-4th graders will be bused to the pool each day the weeks of April 14-25.

• 9-10am: 1st grade
• 10-11am: 4th grade
• 11am-12pm: 2nd grade
• 12:35-1:35pm: 3rd grade

Hot Lunch

March Hot Lunch Menu

Calendar

March

• 6: Rose Park Spring Program 6:30-7:30pm
• 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

View the full Holland Christian calendar

Store windows at this time of year are often laced in doilies and framed with paper chain hearts. Our commercial calendar is reminding us it’s time to celebrate love in this the shortest month of the year. We hope you hear our smiles rather than the sound of cynicism. Truly, Jesus challenges us to love others authentically, love God deeply and even love ourselves graciously every day of our lives rather than the focus in just one month or a single special holiday. Our Rose Park children recently unpacked these words shared by the revered Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” Yes. May our actions throughout the journey of our lives ever speak this truth. And may our children learn this truth through our actions, not just our words. Love is much greater than hate. God’s light is much greater than the darkness in this world. Our prayer is that our children will live this truth more authentically and effectively than all who have come before. And? Happy Valentine’s Day, friends. 🙂

All warmth and joy be yours,

Katelyn and Miska

Announcements

Hot Lunch

February Hot Lunch Menu

Save the Date: Spring Program

March 6 will be our Spring Program held at Christ Memorial from 6:30-7:30.  Your child’s teacher will communicate more specifics to you soon.  We’re excited to welcome you to an evening of community worship.

Ranch Hands

Would your family be interested in caring for our goats (the wonderful Rosie and Parker) and three chickens (Pearl, Opal, and Mera) on a Saturday or two this spring? It’s a pretty simple task to be a ranch hand but does require knowledge of our barn/greenhouse locking system and feeding tasks. We are taking applications! Your child may write a note expressing interest on behalf of your family and bring to the office “applying” for the job! Or you can just email Miska your interest. We’re looking for five families who respond first to pilot the family partnership. Thank you for embracing the joy our critters bring to the lives of our students!

Rose Park Runners

Interested in Running a 5k? 3rd-5th grade kids are welcome to join the Rose Park Runners. We will practice on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from right after school until 4:30. Practices will begin on February 18, and we will practice up until the Tulip Time 5k on Saturday, May 3. We will start with some strengthening and conditioning, and then work on our running stamina to prepare us for a 5k. No previous running experience needed! Please sign up using this google form.

6th Grade Launch Night Save the Date:

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. See the 6th Grade Launch Night Flyer for more information.

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-4th graders will be bused to the pool each day the weeks of April 14-25.

• 9-10am: 1st Grade
• 10-11am: 4th Grade
• 11am-12pm: 2nd Grade
• 12:35-1:35pm: 3rd 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 starting at 9am Monday, February 3.

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.

Lacrosse Opportunity

Boys lacrosse registration is open for our 3/4, 5/6 and 7/8 club teams!  The 3/4 team begins after spring break on April 15 and the 5/6 & 7/8 teams begin on March 17. Early bird pricing runs through February 15, so sign up today!

Lunar New Year Community Celebration

Join us as we celebrate the Lunar New Year on Friday, February 7 from 5-7:30pm at the Holland Fish and Game Club. All are invited to this family-friendly event. Enjoy cultural activities and food for purchase such as 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:

Calendar

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

• 6:  Spring Program 6:30-7:30pm
• 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

View the full Holland Christian calendar

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,

Katelyn and Miska

Announcements

Our Beloved Front Office Ladies

Thank you, Mrs. VanderZee and welcome, Mrs. Borchert to our front office. Mrs. VanderZee has had changes happen with her family and needed to step away from her beloved role at Rose Park. We are SO grateful for her love and care she has provided for our children and staff. Additionally, we are tremendously grateful to welcome Mrs. April Borchert to our front office. You will see Mrs. Borchert serving our children, staff and families in the front office and Mondays and Tuesdays.

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.

Running in the New Year

Rose Park will have a running club again this spring! We will start on February 18, and meet Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Our final event will be the Tulip Time 5k on Saturday May 3. This group is for anyone who wants to get out and move! Please Sign your runners up using the this link.

Discovery Night at Rose Park

Do you or any of your friends or extended family have a prospective preschooler or kindergartener? Are you looking into options for the 25-26 school year? We’ll be having our Discovery Night on January 16 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, an RSVP for the Discovery Night is required.

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 25-26 school year begins February 1, 2024.

Happy New Year

No school December 23-January 5 for Christmas break and are so excited to welcome your child back to school on Monday, January 6.

Little Maroons Basketball

Little Maroons is a Holland Christian winter basketball opportunity for kindergarten-6th graders to develop in both skill and game play. Grades 5-6 have three clinics before Christmas to prepare for their local 5-6 league run through City of Holland Recreation. Register through Active for the Holland Christian sessions and clinics.

Substitute Need

Help needed!! Rose Park has a handful of WONDERFUL individuals who faithfully jump in and help us fill in for teachers and aides who need to be absent from the classroom. We need to add to this group! If you have even a spark of interest in subbing in a classroom at Rose Park, or you know of someone who may be interested, please reach out and email Suzanne or Katie in the office 616.820.4055. Subbing hours can range from a few hours, to a full day from 8am-3:15pm. If it is your preference to sub only at Rose Park, we can make that happen! A teaching certificate is NOT required.

Hot Lunch

January Hot Lunch Calendar

Calendar

View the full Holland Christian calendar

December

• 23-Jan 5: Christmas vacation

January

• 16: Discovery Night at Rose Park
• 6-17: MAP & Delta Testing
• 10: End of 2nd quarter
• 16: Discovery Night
• 17: Report cards available online
• 20: No school MLK Day

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.

Announcements

Manos de Jesus Kindergarten Cookie Sale

Maestra Klipp Lopez and her family are serving in Guatemala this year. Through the organization Manos de Jesus (Hands of Jesus) they are able to reach and support families through a variety of programs. If, during this Christmas season, your family would like to support the children in their care, please consider giving through this link (select the Lopez family in the drop down menu)) or through our cookie sale. Our kindergarteners will be having their annual cookie sale on Thursday, December 5. Grab your quarters and join us in the Intersection at Rose Park at 9:30am. Cookies will be $.50 a piece. All proceeds will bless Manos de Jesús.

Rose Park Lost and Found

The weather is changing and our Lost and Found is growing! Please take a minute to look our Lost and Found tables to see if any of these items belong to your student. Feel free to email Katie or Suzanne to claim your items and we will make sure to get it in your student’s backpack. These items will be donated soon.

Also, please make sure to bring your child’s snow stuff to school every day or leave an extra set at school. In Michigan, the weather can change quickly and we want to make sure your child is warm and comfortable in their outdoor play! Our office has a limited supply of items. If your child borrows an item, we will send it home to be washed and returned for other students to use. We are always looking for extra gloves to add to our supply!

Discovery Night at Rose Park

Do you or any of your friends or extended family have a prospective preschooler or kindergartener? Are you looking into options for the 25-26 school year? We’ll be having our Discovery Night on January 16 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, an RSVP for the Discovery Night is required.

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 25-26 school year begins February 1, 2024.

Favorite Things

Our Parent Team has compiled a list of our Rose Park Staff’s favorite things. If you are looking for ideas of ways to show your appreciation to your child’s teacher, this list may help you!

Christmas Break

No school December 23-January 5 for Christmas break!

Little Maroons Basketball

Little Maroons is a Holland Christian winter basketball opportunity for kindergarten-6th graders to develop in both skill and game play. Grades 5-6 have three clinics before Christmas to prepare for their local 5-6 league run through City of Holland Recreation. Register through Active for the Holland Christian sessions and clinics.

Substitute Need

Help needed!! Rose Park has a handful of WONDERFUL individuals who faithfully jump in and help us fill in for teachers and aides who need to be absent from the classroom. We need to add to this group! If you have even a spark of interest in subbing in a classroom at Rose Park, or you know of someone who may be interested, please reach out and email Suzanne or Katie in the office 616.820.4055. Subbing hours can range from a few hours, to a full day from 8am-3:15pm. If it is your preference to sub only at Rose Park, we can make that happen! A teaching certificate is NOT required.

Hot Lunch

December 2024 Hot Lunch Menu

Calendar

View the full Holland Christian calendar

December

• 6: Kindergarten Cookie Sale 10am
• 9:  4th and 5th Grade Orchestra and 5th Grade Band Christmas Chapel Performance
• 10: Spanish Immersion Christmas Concert at HCHS 6-7pm
• 23-Jan 5: Christmas vacation

January

• 16: Discovery Night at Rose Park
• 6-17: MAP & Delta Testing
• 10: End of 2nd quarter
• 17: Report cards available online
• 20: No school MLK Day