Rockford Christian Principal's Corner
Rockford Principal's Corner — May 26, 2020
Dear Rockford Christian Families,
As we put the finishing touches on the 2019-20 school year, there is a piece of us that might feel unsettled about the lack of closure. Typically, the end of the year is filled with celebration and reflection, but today, many of us can't help but think about what's next. What will the fall hold? How will we do recess? Might we be off-campus again?
These questions (and many others!) are being carefully considered by dedicated groups of educators and administrators in our district. As different scenarios for next year begin to take shape; I want to affirm that our work holds Christ at the center. Our mission to prepare effective servants of Christ guides our planning and supports all we do.
Rockford Christian is committed to providing excellent PreK — 8the grade Christian education, nurturing a relational community and culture, and investing in meaningful, integrated outdoor education. These commitments distinguish us as a school and give our community that wonderful family feel. We have much to celebrate and look forward to.
Phil Warners, Director of Outdoor Education
One exciting development for next year will be a new role for Mr. Phil Warners: our first-ever Director of Outdoor Education. In this position, Mr. Phil will be using his considerable gifts to teach Outdoor Education as a co-curricular subject to all K-8 students at Rockford Christian. He will also take an active role in stewarding the campus as an outdoor learning environment and connecting with community partners, such as Camp Roger, in creating experiential learning opportunities for our students. Ms. Barret will be taking over the 6th-grade homeroom position next year as Mr. Phil moves into this new role.
I am also excited to introduce a few new members of the RCS family as we welcome new staff for next year.
Julia Blanker, Preschool
Julia graduated this year from Calvin University with a degree in Early Childhood Education and minors in Integrated Science and Language Arts. She thinks she was maybe in 5th grade at Rockford Christian as a student when she realized that teaching was her calling. Julia is passionate about fostering children's growth across all domains, both academic and spiritual, providing rich and meaningful learning experiences for all students, including those with exceptionalities; and cultivating children's connection with one another, their world, and their Creator.
Zach Nordling, 1st Grade
Zach joins RCS after spending the last eight years teaching 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades at Mustard Seed School in Hoboken, New Jersey. He has a passion for integrating the arts into student work and designing curriculum to meet the diverse needs of learners as they explore God's amazing creation. Zach feels privileged to join a school community that knows and cares deeply for its students and staff. He, along with his wife, Kate, and daughter Freya, are excited to be a part of Rockford Christian School.
Sarah DeMeester, 4th Grade
Sarah DeMeester joins us from Ann Arbor public schools, where she worked in a third-grade classroom this past year. Sarah got married last summer to her husband Michael; together they enjoy hiking, kayaking, camping, and traveling. Sarah attended Rockford Christian herself and is excited to now join the Rockford Christian community as part of the staff. She can't wait to share her love of God's creation with her students!
Anna Quist, 5th Grade Homeroom, Bible, 5th & 6th Grade Science and Math
Anna Quist is graduated from Calvin University this year, with majors in Elementary Education and Integrated Science with a minor in Psychology. She is excited to join the RCS staff in the fall! Anna is especially excited to join in the mission of Christian, nature-based education and to teach science — her favorite subject. She enjoys outdoor activities like biking and hiking, as well as creative outlets like sewing and cooking.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support.
In Him,
Ben Buursma
Ben Buursma
Principal
Rockford Christian School