Forest School
Learning is best when it’s relevant for students—when they see its connection to the world around them. And few opportunities offer the level of concrete relevance that a nature-based program does…
…besides dovetailing beautifully with HC’s mission and faith-formative focus—that the Lord cares deeply about the world He made, and we, as His followers, love the things He loves, including His creation.
Research on outdoor education has shown that effective outdoor learning can improve students’ focus, cognitive function, test scores, social skills, wonder and creativity. Our Forest School classes are offered in partnership with the Outdoor Discovery Center whose naturalists visit regularly.
Miska Rynsburger
Forest School Principal
HC Forest School
880 Ottawa Ave.
Holland, MI 49423
Mrs. Miska Rynsburger, Principal
fs@hollandchristian.org
info@hollandchristian.org
616.820.4103
Forest School Schedule
| Period | Time |
|---|---|
| K-2nd Drop-off | 8:00 – 8:20am |
| First Bell | 8:20am |
| Full Day Dismissal | 3:20pm |
Quick Links
K-2 Lunch Menu
View this month’s lunch menu for our K-2nd Grades. More info about our Food Services program can be found on the Food Services Page.
3-5 Lunch Menu
View this month’s lunch menu for our 3rd-5th graders. More info about our Food Services program can be found on the Food Services Page.
Forest School Handbook
Learn more about our school policies, student expectations, extra curriculars, and other general information.
Recommended Gear List & School Supplies
A list of the gear all Forest School students will need during the school year, along with school supplies by grade level each student should bring to school the first day of school.
Monthly Newsletter
Read the monthly school newsletter to learn all you need to know about what’s happening this month. Where to go, when to be there, what to do when you’re there!
Parent Team
A volunteer group of parents that supports Forest School staff, raises money for extra school materials, & welcomes new families into our school family.Email us for more information!
Media about HC Forest School
Articles
SCHOOL’S ‘OUT’ – LITERALLY | Holland Christian launches ‘Forest Kindergarten’
It’s a ‘Snow Day’ every day at Forest Kindergarten in the winter
Podcasts
Check out these two episodes from the HC Medium Talk Podcast featuring former & founding Forest School kindergarten teacher Ron Harig & our Forest School kids!
Helpful Resources on Outdoor Education
The research on nature-based education shows great promise for nature-based education. Outdoor learning provides not only fresh air and ventilation, but a host of educational and personal benefits as well. Here are a few resources linked below describing all these varied benefits of outdoor education:
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- 1000hoursoutside.com
- The Benefits of Adventure/Outdoor Education
- Natural Learning in Forest Schools: Mother Earth News
- Washington Post.com: Why schools are failing our boys
- Scholastic.com: Why kids need nature
- Great Schools.org: Children and nature: who let the kids out?
- White Hutchinson.com: Benefits for Children of Play in Nature
- White Hutchinson.com: Young children’s relationship with nature: Its importance to children’s development and the earth’s future
Have Questions?
We look forward to meeting you and your family and introducing you to the fresh, creative, personalized education at Holland Christian! We are here to help! Get in touch using the contact form linked below or call us at 616.820.2805.