Rockford Christian Principal's Corner

Are you the kind of person who eats their favorite thing first, or saves the best for last? Do you like beginnings or endings? I know folks who have to read the end of a book first before they commit to the whole thing. My nightstand, on the other hand, is full of books I’ve started but not yet finished. 

When it comes to school, there is something special about both the start and the end. The beginning of the year is full of expectation and excitement: new pencils and a clean slate. The end of the year is marked with celebration and reflection—gratitude for the learning and growth we’ve experienced. 

The end of this school year looks and feels different than any of us imagined, yet I still feel a deep sense of gratitude for our students, families, and staff. In fact, our physical distance has only reinforced the value of being together. 

Today I want to specifically acknowledge the work and contributions of those folks who won’t be back at Rockford Christian next year. For them, it is especially difficult not to be celebrating and reflecting together in person. Join me in thanking them!

Middle school student support aide Kim Wierenga will be spending next year at home with her family. We are thankful for the many ways Mrs. Wierenga has poured into RCS students, from organizing the yearbook to teaching Geometry. Her dependable and warm presence will be missed!

School Social Worker Grace Boyle will also be spending more time at home with her family next year. Mrs. Boyle has served as a wonderful resource to our students, families, and teachers alike! We are grateful for her listening ear and sage advice. 

K-8 Music teacher and Middle School Band Director Amber Schaap will be moving in the District to Grand Rapids Christian Middle and Elementary School to continue her teaching. Mrs. Schaap has enriched our school with her engaging teaching and excellent programs and concerts. Her enthusiasm for bringing our best to God in music has been infectious. 

1st Grade Teacher April Hoeksema is stepping away from the classroom next year. Families who have had the pleasure to work with Mrs. Hoeksema have been touched by her deep care for her students and her commitment to providing them with meaningful, Christ-centered learning experiences. 

From the very start of Rockford Christian, 4th Grade Teacher Bev Broersma has been a part of the RCS family. Her creativity, passion for God’s world, and care for her students have been an integral part of shaping our school into who we are today. We wish her well in retirement! 

We know that in all things, God is active and present. We celebrate the way He has used this wonderful group of educators to build His kingdom here. We know too that God has a plan for the future, and we move forward in faith and trust in Him. 

—Ben