Mr. Barkel, the principal at Iroquois, has a sign in his office with the quote “The hardest climbs have the best views.” 

From our current vantage point, it is rewarding to take a moment to pause and look back on how far we have come since August. Students have been in school, in person, all year. They have made new friendships, expanded their understanding of the world, and deepened their walks with God. 

The incredible growth we see as teachers and parents is uniquely tied to some of the challenges we’ve faced this year. The resilience, grit, and flexibility students have demonstrated will serve them well for years to come; even more notably, students have learned to live out the theme verse of Colossians 1:17 and trust in God’s plan for the future. 

As we give thanks for God’s faithfulness, it is important to recognize how God has used the faithful service of our teachers and staff. The beginning of May marks Teacher Appreciation Week, although it’s hard to imagine that even a week would be enough time to express our gratitude for all the work our educators have done this year. 

Rockford Christian wouldn’t be the incredible place it is without the expertise, support, and love of our teachers and staff. Thank you!

— Ben Buursma