Dear GRCES Iroquois Parents and Friends, 

I hope you are enjoying your summer! We are working hard, preparing to welcome kids back to the Iroquois campus. Oh, how we have missed them! Your kids are a blessing, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside you and their teachers in order to provide them with a top-notch educational experience. We are thrilled to have them back!

I'm excited to share our system-wide theme this year.  “Oaks of Righteousness/Robles de Justicia” based on Isaiah 61:3 which says, "They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor.’” Oak trees have deep roots, hearty trunks, and sprawling branches that reach towards the sky. They are a display of history, growth and might. This year our students will reflect on how they are standing on the legacy of the past, living in the present, and will continue to grow into the future as disciples of Christ. They will be Oaks of Righteousness, for God’s glory! How exciting! It is our hope and prayer that this theme has a significant impact on your child’s life!

This page contains all the pertinent information you need in regards to returning to school. You are making a great investment in your child(ren)’s education, and I encourage you to be familiar with the details that will help make this a great experience for them.

An important reminder for all preschool, kindergarten, and new students in first through fourth grade - please submit the required health appraisal form, up-to-date immunization record or certified waiver, and birth certificate to the school office. Your child will not be able to start school until these forms and documents have been submitted. 

I am really looking forward to welcoming you back to a new school year. Your partnership in your child’s education is something we are so passionate about, and we are beyond grateful for our partnership with you. Let’s have a GREAT school year of learning, praising our Savior, and celebrating each other. Thank you for sharing your kids with us. Have a blessed rest of your summer!

Your Partner in Christian Education, 

Listed below are the supplies that your child will need to bring to school in the fall. Please Note: Backpacks will be kept in lockers and need to fit into a 12" x 12" space. Suggested headphone brands LilGadgets, JBuddies, SkullCandy, Brenthaven

Preschool and Young Fives

• A backpack with one main compartment large enough to fit all school belongings (including winter gear)

• A lunch box for all day students. Hot lunch is available for purchase. More information regarding how to purchase hot lunch will be provided in August.

• A small blanket for rest time. It is important that your child can manage taking it in and out of their locker independently. Please note, rest time is only for full day students.

• Outdoor gear for whatever the weather is that day.  We go outside in all kinds of weather. Make sure your child's shoes are great for running!

• Please provide an extra set of clothing (shirt, pants, socks, and underwear). Label each item with your child’s name and place it in a gallon-size Ziploc bag with your child’s name written on the front. It can be kept in their locker if they do not need to share their locker with another student. If your child(ren) is attending preschool Monday - Friday, they will have their own lockers. Those who are enrolled in Monday/Wednesday/Friday or Tuesday/Thursday preschool will share a locker and keep their extra clothes in their backpack.

• A spill-proof water bottle with your child’s name labeled so it is clearly visible. Your child should be able to open the bottle to refill it as needed.

Kindergarten

• Backpack (Big enough to hold a large library book and no wheels)
• Paint shirt (an old adult T-shirt works well, no buttons!)
• Inexpensive gym shoes to be kept at school (Velcro and non-marking bottoms preferred!)
• 2 large glue sticks — Elmers .77 oz each
• Markers — broad tip Crayola washable
• Water bottle with sip top
• Pencils, scissors, markers, erasers, and folders will be supplied by school
• Recommended: Headphones with 3.5 mm plug (with name on it, less than $30, no earbuds)

First Grade

• 2 large glue sticks
• Colored pencils (24 count – sharpened)
• Plastic pencil box (for colored pencils)
• Tennis shoes for P.E. (to be left at school all year)
• Water bottle with sip/straw top (spill-proof)
• Pencils, scissors, markers, erasers, and folders will be supplied by school
• Recommended: Headphones with 3.5 mm plug (with name on it, less than $30, no earbuds)

Second Grade

• Pencil box
• 2 large glue sticks
• Crayons (24 count)
• Colored Pencils (12 sharpened)
• Tennis shoes for PE (to be left at school all year)
• Art shirt (with name on it — old adult size t-shirt)
• Recommended: Headphones with 3.5 mm plug (with name on it, less than $30, no earbuds)

Third Grade

• 2 large glue sticks 
• Crayons (16-count)
• Colored Pencils (12-count)
• Large pencil box (9”x5”)
• 1 pkg of 8-10 Markers, classic colors and broad tipped
• 1 pkg dry erase markers (thin markers)
• Active Public Library card
• Scissors
• Highlighter  
• 1 package of Post-it-notes (3x3 size)
• Tennis shoes for PE (to be left at school all year)
• For home use: ruler and pencils
• Recommended: Headphones with 3.5 mm plug (with name on it, less than $30)

Fourth Grade

• 12 or more pre-sharpened pencils
• 2 large glue sticks
• Crayons (16 count)
• Colored pencils (12 count)
• Large pencil box (9" x 5")
• 1 pkg of 8-10 markers (classic colors, broad tip)
• 1 pkg dry erase markers (thin markers)
• Active Public Library card
• Scissors
• Highlighter
• 3 pads of Post-it-notes (3x3 size)
• Tennis shoes for PE (to be left at school all year) 

Printable List

We are celebrating the start of the school year with an Open House for students and parents on Monday, August 14. This is always a great time for children to meet their new teachers and to see their new rooms. Please see below for your assigned time:

• 4:30-5:00 pm - All NEW families.

• 5:00-5:30 pm - Last names beginning with A-G

• 5:30-6:00 pm - Last names beginning with H-R

• 6:00-6:30 pm - Last names beginning with S-Z

Here at Grand Rapids Christian, we are eagerly anticipating the start of a new school year with our youngest learners. Preschool teachers will reach out to families the first week of August to introduce themselves and share important information with you. A mailing will be sent in mid-July with additional back-to-school information for preschool - fourth grade.

Upcoming Dates and Events 

• August 4 — Required documentation due at the school office 
• August 16 — First Day of Kindergarten, half-day — dismissal at 12:10 pm 
• September 1 & September 4 — No School, Labor Day Weekend
• See the school calendar for full details.

Required Documentation – Due Friday, August 4, 2023 

The following documents must be turned in to the school office no later than Friday, August 4, 2023:

1. Health Appraisal
2. An official copy of your child’s up-to-date immunization record from your child’s doctor or a certified waiver. *Note that the front and back must be filled out and the form must be signed by the student’s doctor’s office. 
3. A copy of your child’s birth certificate if not already submitted.

Your child will not be able to start school until these forms and documents have been submitted. You may either send these in the mail or drop them off at the school office (1050 Iroquois SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506). The school office will be open 9:00 am — 2:00 pm starting Tuesday, August 1. You may also email the Health Appraisal and birth certificate copy here. 

You will find these forms along with other required back to school forms here.

Questions?

If you have questions, please contact Jessie Renz  or John Barkel.

Classes begin on Wednesday, August 16, at 8:05 am, with dismissal at 12:10 pm. Lunch will not be served at school on the first day.  Kids Care is not available on half days. Buses will run as scheduled. 

Drop-off information:

• Cars for K-4 students, enter the circle drive using the main (south) entrance off Iroquois.
• Students that are car riders may not be dropped off by the playground. They will enter the front doors and proceed to the playground.
  • Staff will be on the playground for duty starting at 7:45 am. 
  • Please do not drop your child off prior to 7:45 am.
• Children must enter/exit on the passenger side of the vehicle. We want a safe and efficient drop off and pick up. 
• If possible, please have your child’s belongings in the car with them, not in the trunk.
• Please take your time, and drive slowly.

After school pick-up information:

• Cars for K-2 students, enter the circle drive using the main (south) entrance off Iroquois. 
• Cars for grades 3-4,  pick up at the gate on Cadillac.
• PLEASE do not enter the car line until 3:00 pm. Children will not start entering cars until 3:10 when the bells ring. This allows classroom teachers to get students safely to the car line and the line to move safely and efficiently.  
• There is NOT GYM PICK UP. Car line will always be used for after school pick up.
• The car line is supervised until all of the students are picked up. This helps accommodate any parents who need to pick up a middle school student before coming to the Iroquois campus.  
• If you have students in multiple grades, you will make multiple stops.  
  • Having your child’s first name and grade on your car sign is important. Please see the template that is provided.   
• If you have a preschooler, you will do preschool pick up then drive around to get into the car line to pick up students from grades K-2 and 3-4.

Car Line Window Sign Example:

• Please have this sign up in your passenger side window or dashboard.
• Please use a large font size OR dark markers and write large enough so we can see the names and grades of your students.

New Family Open House Preview

Welcome to  the Grand Rapids Christian Schools community! 

You are invited to join us for the New Family Open House Preview on Monday, August 14 at 4:30 pm. This is a special opportunity for new families to meet your child's teacher and see their classroom before the Open House starts.

Please join us afterward on the playground for ice cream and social gathering.

Forms

If you have not already done so, be sure to submit the required health appraisal form, up-to-date immunization record or certified waiver, and birth certificate to the school office. Your child will not be able to start school until these forms and documents have been submitted. We want them to be with us right away so please get those forms in!

Your will find these forms along with other required back to school forms here.

The State of Michigan requires that your child(ren) be immunized for enrollment at Grand Rapids Christian Schools. Each year we must report every student enrolled in preschool, kindergarten, seventh grade, and those that are new to our district. Please review the Required Childhood Immunization Schedule set forth by the State of Michigan.

Please also note that the State of Michigan has revised its law on immunization waivers.

Waiver Information:

• If you intend to complete a non-medical waiver to the immunization policy, you must contact the Kent County Health Department at 616.632.7200 to schedule an appointment to speak with a health educator, complete the waiver process and submit the original certified waiver to the school office.
• The original certified medical waivers must be completed and signed by a physician then submitted to the school office.

Written evidence that immunizations are now up to date or a copy of a certified waiver must be received before the start of the school year and is due by or on August 4, 2023. A new waiver is required each year that your child is reported. This allows for proper processing prior to the first day of classes.

Please feel free to contact Arrin Brisbane if you have any questions. We appreciate your attention to this matter. It is our top priority to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all students.

Evergreen | Iroquois | Rockford Christian Elementary

APPLIES TO ALL GRAND RAPIDS CHRISTIAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL-AGE STUDENTS and FAMILIES:

• No food clearly identifiable as or clearly labeled as containing peanuts is permitted.
• Foods labeled as "processed with peanuts" or "processed in a facility that also processes peanuts" are permitted unless your child's classroom is specifically designated as a "Peanut-Free Zone".
• To avoid accidental exposure to allergens through residual contact, all students are expected to wash their hands after meals.
• Any activities involving food in common areas must be allergen-free and proper cleaning of tables and common areas must occur after any events in common areas.
• Threats to students with life-threatening allergies are considered bullying and will be addressed by GRCES’ student discipline process. 
• Information about peanut allergies, how to read labels, peanut-free lunch alternatives, or birthday treat ideas is available at the GRCES school office.

APPLIES TO ALL GRCES STUDENTS AND FAMILIES IN CLASSROOMS WITH A PEANUT-ALLERGIC STUDENT:

• Children in classrooms who bring peanut products in their lunch will have these products removed and will be provided with a reasonable alternative if available.
• GRCES maintains the right to declare a classroom a "Peanut-Free Zone" depending on the age of the allergic child and the severity of the allergy.
• If your child is in a "Peanut-Free Zone" classroom, you will be notified directly. (Peanut-Free Zone: Area where no products containing, processed with, or processed in a facility with peanuts is allowed due to risks of cross-contamination and accidental exposure.)

APPLIES TO STAFF AT GRAND RAPIDS CHRISTIAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AND STAFF OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL-AGED STUDENTS:

• The school (in partnership with parents, health officials, and other agencies) participate in ongoing school community education programs.
• The school trains staff on allergies, sources of allergens, avoidance techniques, identification of an allergic reaction in progress, and emergency response procedures. 
• Teachers in classrooms where life-threatening allergies are present may confiscate food that poses a danger to another student and may provide a safe alternative if one is available.
• Peanuts or peanut-contaminated materials are NOT utilized in any teacher-initiated activities (i.e. art projects, baking projects, games, etc.)

The Grand Rapids Christian Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) would like to extend a warm welcome to all new and returning families! We are a volunteer organization made up of parents and staff who have the privilege of supporting our school community throughout the year.

GRCES is a community dependent on parent/guardian involvement. Your contributions, through sharing of your time, knowledge, and resources make a difference. We encourage you to prayerfully consider how you can volunteer at GRCES this year!

We look forward to a great school year! Look for the weekly home bulletin email. This communication will include important PTO sign-up links as well as information regarding fun PTO-sponsored events throughout the year. 

We are thankful for the blessing of a strong Christian community at GRCES and for the support of families. Thank you for your continued faithful commitment to our staff and students!

Specific bus routes with pick-up and drop-off locations will be determined by Grand Rapids Christian Schools and/or Grand Rapids Public Schools and communicated through the GRCS Transportation Department. Questions regarding busing should be directed to the GRCS Transportation Department at 616.574.5710 or transportation@grcs.org. 

This school year, students across all campuses of Grand Rapids Christian will learn together what it means for us to be tree-like. In the 61st chapter of Isaiah, the prophet refers to all who call on the same of Jesus when he says:

"They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor."

Our Evergreen students create a grove of their own, filling this school and the community beyond with the beauty of the Lord’s splendor! In this grove, young and old trees grow side by side in our multiage classrooms and our kindergarten through fifth-grade CREWs. In this grove, each tree is nourished as teachers holistically approach students’ spiritual, academic, and social-emotional needs. In this grove, an intentional community grows as we deepen our commitment to know, love, and serve God. 

Until the coming return to school, please join me in praying for a wonderful year of growth as you review all of these back to school details. This page contains all the pertinent information you need in regards to returning to school. You are making a great investment in your child(ren)'s education, and I encourage you to be familiar with the details that will help make this year a great experience. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out.

See you all soon,

Listed below are the supplies that your child will need to bring to school in August.

Please Note: Backpacks are kept in lockers and need to fit into a 12" x 12" space. Please keep this in mind if you purchase a new backpack this summer.

All Students

• Large backpack (without wheels and need to fit a folder, a library book, and a lunch bag) 
• Water bottle (with sip top and labeled with your student's name)

Preschool

• Weather appropriate outdoor gear
• Extra set of clothing (shirt, pants, socks and underwear) placed in a gallon-sized Ziploc bag with your child's name written on the front
• For all day students, a small blanket for rest time

Team 1 (Kindergarten — 1st Grade)

• 4 large glue sticks
• 1 small bottle of liquid glue
• 8 or 10 pack of Crayola washable markers
• 24 pack of Crayola crayons
• 5 black white board markers
• 6 #2 pencils, sharpened
• Scissors
• Tennis shoes for P.E. to be kept in locker
• Wired headphones that fit over the ear (not earbuds)

Team 2 (2nd — 3rd grade)

• 1 large glue stick
• 2 socks (for whiteboard eraser)
• 4 black white board markers
• Washable Markers
• Colored Pencils (12 pack)
• Tennis shoes for P.E. to be kept in locker
• Wired headphones that fit over the ear (not earbuds)

Team 3 (4th — 5th grade)

• 2 large glue sticks
• Colored markers 
• Highlighters
• 4 black white board markers
• 2 socks (for whiteboard eraser) 
• Scissors
• Tennis shoes for P.E. to be kept in locker
• Wired headphones that fit over the ear (not earbuds)

Printable supply list

The K-5 Open House will be held on Monday, August 14, from 4:00 - 6:00 pm. This is an opportunity to see where your classroom is located this year and to meet your teacher and classmates. 

We look forward to partnering with you in your child’s education this year! Across the campus, we are home to three GRCES Evergreen preschool classrooms and a Great Start Readiness Program classroom. Below is information that is relevant to all of Evergreen preschool classrooms. The first day of preschool is Wednesday, August 23. 

Upcoming Dates and Events 

• August 16 — Required documentation due at the school office 
• August 16 — First Day of Kindergarten, half-day — dismissal at noon 
• August 25 — No School, PD for staff
• August 28 & 29 — School Picture Days
• August 30 — Back to School Ice Cream Social
• September 1 & September 4 — No School, Labor Day Weekend
• See the school calendar for full details.

Required Documentation – Due Wednesday, August 16, 2023 

The documents listed below are important to have on file for each student as we work and learn together in community at Evergreen. Completed forms can be mailed to the school office at 1630 Griggs St SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506, emailed to Carrie Doezema at cdoezema@grcs.org, or brought to the open house on Monday, August 14. 

Forms required annually:

1. An up to date Health Appraisal Form *note, the front and back must be filled out, and the form must be signed by the student's doctor's office.
2. An official copy of your child’s up-to-date immunization record from your child’s doctor or a certified waiver. 

Forms needed to be completed for initial enrollment at GRCS:

1. A copy of your child’s birth certificate 

2. Concussion Awareness Form

Forms needed as applicable(updated annually)

1. Major Medical Conditions: To be completed for all students who have an update to their medical condition that has not already been provided through ParentVUE

2. Prescription Medication Authorization: This form must be completed only for a student who requires prescription medications that will be carried and/or dispensed at school.

Your child will not be able to start school until these forms and documents have been submitted. All kindergarten students as well as all students in first through fifth grade who are new to GRCS need to submit their state-required forms. Completed forms can be mailed to the school office at 1630 Griggs St SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 or brought to the open house.

You will find these forms along with other required back to school forms here.

Welcome to GRCES Evergreen! We look forward to partnering with you in your child(ren)'s education this year as we work together to prepare students to be effective servants of Christ in contemporary society. We look forward to greeting you at our back to school visiting opportunities: K-5 Open House and/or the Preschool Visiting Days. K-5 families, please be sure to stop by the New Families table during our Open House for a special welcome from our admissions team. 

• August 7 -15 (Monday - Friday) from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
• At the K-5 Open House on Monday, August 14, 4:00 - 6:00 pm
• August 16 from 7:30 am - 3:30 pm

Forms

To be completed for initial enrollment in GRCS

1. A copy of your child's birth certificate
2. Concussion Awareness Form

Forms required annually:

1. The Child Information Record-  Preschool students only!
2. The Health Appraisal Form *Note that the front and back must be filled out, and the form must be signed by the student's doctor's office
3. An official copy of your child’s up-to-date immunization record from your child’s doctor or a certified waiver. 

forms needed As applicable (updated annually)

1. Major Medical Conditions: To be completed for all students who have an update to their medical condition that has not already been provided through ParentVUE

2. Prescription Medication Authorization: This form must be completed only for a student who requires prescription medications that will be carried and/or dispensed at school.

You will find these forms along with other required back to school forms here.

Classes will begin on Wednesday, August 16, at 8:00 a.m., with dismissal at noon.  Lunch will not be served at school on the first day. Kids Care is not available on half days. Buses will run as scheduled. 

Before School Drop-Off Procedure

1. The Evergreen parking lot at 1630 Griggs St. is set up for one-way traffic from west to east

• Enter the drive with caution as families with young students cross the lot from their parking spots.
• Cars entering the parking lot must pull into the pick-up lane and proceed as far as possible to the east end of the pick-up line to drop off their student(s),
• If your student(s) needs assistance with unbuckling, please pull into a parking space to safely assist your child.

 2. Parking spaces are preferred parking for preschool families who need to walk their students to the preschool classrooms

After School Pick-Up Procedure

1. Window ID Signs
   • Each new family will receive two car window ID signs.
   • The sign includes the Evergreen logo and the last name of your family.
   • Please keep one sign and distribute the other sign to those designated to pick up your children.
   • If you are a returning family and need new signs or if you require additional signs, please contact Carrie Doezema.
   • The car sign must be displayed in the front right corner of your car window. It  works well to attach the sign to your front passenger visor and just flip the visor down as you enter the car line. 
2. The Evergreen parking lot at 1630 Griggs St. is set up for one-way traffic from west to east.
   • Cars entering the parking lot should pull directly into the pick-up lane and should proceed as far as possible to the east end of the pick-up line to wait for their students.
   • Staff members will walk students out to the pick-up line at the end of the school day.
   • As soon as cars finish picking up their child(ren), they may carefully pull out of the pick-up line and exit the parking lot. Staff then waves the next car forward and continues to call out names.

• If you wish to exit your car for any reason, please pull into the parking spaces in the turnaround.
• If your student(s) need assistance buckling themselves into the car, please pull into a parking space in order to safely assist your child(ren).
• For the safety of all, please remember that it is not wise to cross a road or parking lot through traffic or between cars.

4. Parents and caregivers who choose to park must be the adult who escorts the student across the parking lot.

If a child has not been picked up from school by 3:20 pm, the staff members on duty will take that child to our office, where the office staff will call home to inquire about pickup plans. If an emergency delays you, please call the school office at 616.574.5900. If the weather is bad, we understand that the pick-up process will most likely take longer.

If you have any questions or comments please contact Principal Graham Schultze or by phone at 616.574.5902. Thank you for your cooperation as we work together to maintain the safety of our students and our families.

The State of Michigan requires that your child(ren) be immunized for enrollment at Grand Rapids Christian Schools. Each year we must report every student enrolled in preschool, kindergarten, seventh grade, and those that are new to our district. Please review the Required Childhood Immunization Schedule set forth by the State of Michigan.

Please also note that the State of Michigan has revised its law on immunization waivers.

• If you intend to complete a non-medical (religious or philosophical) waiver to the immunization policy, you must contact the Kent County Health Department at 616.632.7200 to schedule an appointment to speak with a health educator, complete the waiver process and submit the original certified waiver to the school office.
• If you intend to submit a certified medical waiver, it must be completed and signed by a physician then submitted to the school office.

Written evidence that immunizations are now up to date or a copy of a certified waiver must be received before the start of the school year and is due by or on the first day of school. A new waiver is required each year that your child is reported. This will allow for proper processing prior to the first day of classes.

Please feel free to contact Carrie Doezema if you have any questions. We appreciate your attention to this matter. It is our top priority to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all students.

Evergreen | Iroquois | Rockford Christian Elementary

APPLIES TO ALL GRAND RAPIDS CHRISTIAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL-AGE STUDENTS & FAMILIES:

• No food clearly identifiable as or clearly labeled as containing peanuts is permitted.
• Foods labeled as "processed with peanuts" or "processed in a facility that also processes peanuts" are permitted unless your child's classroom is specifically designated as a "Peanut-Free Zone".
• To avoid accidental exposure to allergens through residual contact, all students are expected to wash their hands after meals.
• Any activities involving food in common areas must be allergen-free and proper cleaning of tables and common areas must occur after any events in common areas.
• Threats to students with life-threatening allergies are considered bullying and will be addressed by GRCES’ student discipline process. 
• Information about peanut allergies, how to read labels, peanut-free lunch alternatives, or birthday treat ideas will be available at the GRCES school office.

APPLIES TO ALL GRCES STUDENTS and FAMILIES IN CLASSROOMS WITH A PEANUT-ALLERGIC STUDENT:

• Children in classrooms who bring peanut products in their lunch will have these products removed and will be provided with a reasonable alternative if available.
• GRCES maintains the right to declare a classroom a "Peanut-Free Zone" depending on the age of the allergic child and the severity of the allergy.
• If your child is in a "Peanut-Free Zone" classroom, you will be notified directly. (Peanut-Free Zone: Area where no products containing, processed with, or processed in a facility with peanuts is allowed due to risks of cross-contamination and accidental exposure.)

APPLIES TO STAFF AT GRAND RAPIDS CHRISTIAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AND STAFF OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL-AGED STUDENTS:

• The school (in partnership with parents, health officials, and other agencies) participate in ongoing school community education programs.
• The school trains staff on allergies, sources of allergens, avoidance techniques, identification of an allergic reaction in progress, and emergency response procedures. 
• Teachers in classrooms where life-threatening allergies are present may confiscate food that poses a danger to another student and may provide a safe alternative if one is available.
• Peanuts or peanut-contaminated materials are NOT utilized in any teacher-initiated activities (i.e. art projects, baking projects, games, etc.)

The Grand Rapids Christian Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) would like to extend a warm welcome to all new and returning families! We are a volunteer organization made up of parents and staff who have the privilege of supporting our school community throughout the year.

GRCES is a community dependent on parent/guardian involvement. Your contributions, through sharing of your time, knowledge, and resources make a difference. We encourage you to prayerfully consider how you can volunteer at GRCES this year!

We look forward to a great school year! Look for the weekly home bulletin email. This communication will include important PTO sign-up links as well as information regarding fun PTO-sponsored events throughout the year. 

We are thankful for the blessing of a strong Christian community at GRCES and for the support of families. Thank you for your continued faithful commitment to our staff and students!

Specific bus routes with pick-up anddrop-off locations will be determined by Grand Rapids Christian Schools and/or Grand Rapids Public Schools and communicated through the GRCS Transportation Department. Questions regarding busing should be directed to the GRCS Transportation Department at 616.574.5710 or transportation@grcs.org. 

The GRCS school food program is offering lunches for purchase for preschool through fifth grade during the 2023-24 school year. Kindergarten through fifth grade will place their lunch order for that day's hot lunch option in their classroom each morning. Chocolate or white milk is included with the purchase of a school lunch. Students may choose to order just milk to accompany their home lunch. 

Full-day preschool students need to pre-order their selection of sack lunches or milk for the week by the start of the day on Monday mornings (or the first day of school that week). The order link will be sent out by your classroom teacher each week.

Please click on the "Hot Lunch" button on the right side of screen for more information about GRCS' Hot Lunch Program, including monthly menus, pricing, how to pay for hot lunch and how to apply for free or reduced lunches.  

Families are responsible for supplying snacks for their child(ren) to eat during the morning snack time. Please send one or two nutritious snack items along with a water bottle to school each day. 

Dear Rockford Christian School Families,

You might be surprised to learn that a honeybee from one of our RCS hives has to visit around two million flowers and fly 55,000 miles in order to collect enough nectar to make one pound of honey. I hope your summer has been just as sweet and productive as our bees!

Creation is certainly full of wonders that speak of God's creativity, majesty and love. During the school year, we are blessed to use the outdoors as a way to engage in God's world and learn more about our place in it. As our first half-day of school approaches on August 17, we look forward to coming together again as a learning community rooted in Christ.

I want to extend a warm welcome to all of our new families joining Rockford Christian, as well as the teachers that have joined our staff.

Our school theme for the 22-23 school year is "Come, follow me." // "Vengan, siganme" taken from Mark 1:17, "'Come, follow me,' Jesus said, 'and I will send you out to fish for people.'" What a wonderful opportunity we have as a community to respond to Jesus' call on our lives.

The Back-to-School page on our website contains all the pertinent information you need in regards to returning to school. You are making a great investment in your child(ren)'s education, and I encourage you to be familiar with the details that will help make this a great experience for them.

I look forward to seeing all of you at our Back-to-School BBQ and Open House hosted by our PTO on Monday, August 15. The barbecue will be available between 5 and 7 p.m. Our open house will run from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Please come out to reconnect with friends, meet the new faces of our community, get to know the teachers, visit classrooms and share a meal together.

We are also hosting a Classroom Connect on the evening of Monday, September 12. This is a great opportunity for parents to meet with our teachers, learn about classroom routines and expectations, ask questions and start the year on a positive note. Keep your eye out for more information from your child's classroom teacher about this event. 

Thank you so much for entrusting us with your children and for your continued support. We covet your prayers for the coming year and ask for God's blessing as we seek to prepare effective servants of Christ.

In Him,

Join us for our Back-to-School BBQ and Open House on Monday, August 15. The barbecue will be available between 5:00 and 7:00 pm and the open house will run from 5:30 - 7:00 pm. This is a wonderful time to reconnect with friends, see your classroom and meet your teacher. 

Back to School Information

Preschool teachers will be reaching out to families the first week of August to introduce themselves and share some important information with you.

In the meantime, here is some important information of note: 

Kindergarten Back to School Information 

We look forward to partnering with you in your child’s education this year as we work together to prepare students to be effective servants of Christ in contemporary society. Below is information about back-to-school forms and classroom visiting times. 

The documents listed below are important to have on file for each student as we work and learn together in community at RCS. Completed forms can be mailed to the school office at 6060 Belding Rd SE, Rockford, MI 49341 or brought to the open house.

Required Documentation – Due Wednesday, August 17, 2022 

The following documents must be turned in to the school office no later than Wednesday, August 17, 2022:

1. The Health Appraisal Form 
2. An official copy of your child’s up-to-date immunization record from your child’s doctor or a certified waiver. *Note that the front and back must be filled out, and the form must be signed by the student’s doctor’s office. 
3. A copy of your child’s birth certificate 

Your child will not be able to start school until these forms and documents have been submitted. All kindergarten students as well as all students who are new to RCS need to submit their state-required forms. Completed forms can be mailed to the school office at 6060 Belding Rd SE, Rockford, MI 49341  or brought to the open house.

You will find these forms along with other required back to school forms here.

New students and their family are invited to join our principal, Mr. Buursma on Thursday, August 11 for Popsicles with the Principal! More information to come.

Forms

If you have not already done so, be sure to submit the required health appraisal form, up-to-date immunization record or certified waiver, and birth certificate to the school office. Your child will not be able to start school until these forms and documents have been submitted. We want them to be with us right away so please get those forms in!

You will find these forms along with other required back to school forms here.

Classes will begin on Wednesday, August 17, at 8:35 am, with dismissal at 11:30 am. Lunch will not be served at school on the first day.

Drop-Off Procedures

Student safety and courtesy for others are of high importance at Rockford Christian. It is crucial that parents do their part to assist in this effort. We request that all families respect the drop-off, pick-up and visitor guidelines and respect those who enforce them.

Students are welcome to enter the building at 8:15 am. Please note: students who arrive and are in the building before 8:15 am must be registered for Kids Care prior to early arrival. 

• When utilizing the drop-off line, you must remain in your vehicle for the entirety of the drop-off. If you wish to get out of your vehicle, please park in the parking lot and use the designated walkway for safety. Parking is NOT allowed in the drop-off area.
• Do not cut the line. We understand that you may need to drop off your student quickly, however, to ensure the safety of students and staff,  please stay in the drop-off lane in an orderly fashion.
• Morning drop-off runs from 8:15 — 8:30 am. 
• Students arriving before 8:15 am must be registered for Kids Care before school care. 
• You may drop your child off at the front entrance (elementary students) or middle school entrance (middle school students). Please remain in your vehicle in order to keep the carline moving. 
• If you would like to walk your child to their classroom, you may do so before 8:30 am. All parent visitors must say goodbye by the first bell so that teachers and students may start their day!
• Students arriving after the 8:35 am tardy bell will need to first stop in the office before heading to class.
• Please drive safely on campus and do not use cell phones during designated pick-up and drop-off times.

Pick-Up Procedures

• Parent pick-up tags are available at the beginning of the year for each family. These tags hang from the rearview mirror of your vehicle and must be displayed when picking up a student. 
• When utilizing the pick-up line, you must remain in your vehicle for the entirety of pick-up. Staff is happy to assist students into vehicles if need be. If you wish to get out of your vehicle, please park in the parking lot and use the designated walkway. 
• Parking is NOT allowed in the pick-up area. If your child is not ready to load when you are in the pick-up area, you will be directed to drive through with the flow of traffic, and circle around.
• Do not cut the line. We understand that you might be in a rush to get your student. If you are unable to wait in the designated pick-up line, please park in the lot and walk to get you student.
• Pick-up begins when school is dismissed at 3:20 pm and runs until 3:35 pm. 
• Any student planning to stay at school after 3:35 pm must be registered for Kids Care after-school care.
• Teachers will walk all of their students (including middle schoolers) to the front entrance at the end of the day.
• The Middle School entrance is reserved in the afternoon for busing. 
• Students (including middle schoolers) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian in the parking lot at all times. Students may not walk to their car by themselves. 
• If you need to pick up your child before 3:20 pm, please stop in the office so we can get your child for you. Students may not leave school before 3:20 pm without permission from the school office.

The State of Michigan requires that your child(ren) be immunized for enrollment at Grand Rapids Christian Schools. Each year we must report every student enrolled in preschool, kindergarten, seventh grade, and those that are new to our district. Below is the Required Childhood Immunization Schedule set forth by the State of Michigan.

Please also note that the State of Michigan has revised its law on immunization waivers.

• If you intend to complete a non-medical waiver to the immunization policy, you must contact the Kent County Health Department at 616.632.7200 to schedule an appointment to speak with a health educator, complete the waiver process and submit the original certified waiver to the school office.
• The original certified medical waivers must be completed and signed by a physician then submitted to the school office.

Written evidence that immunizations are now up to date or a copy of a certified waiver must be received before the start of the school year and is due by or on August 10, 2022. A new waiver is required each year that your child is reported. This will allow for proper processing prior to the first day of classes.

Please feel free to contact Ashley Howe if you have any questions. We appreciate your attention to this matter. It is our top priority to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all students.

Evergreen | Iroquois | Rockford Christian Elementary

APPLIES TO ALL GRAND RAPIDS CHRISTIAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL-AGE STUDENTS & FAMILIES:

• No food clearly identifiable as or clearly labeled as containing peanuts is permitted.
• Foods labeled as "processed with peanuts" or "processed in a facility that also processes peanuts" are permitted unless your child's classroom is specifically designated as a "Peanut-Free Zone".
• To avoid accidental exposure to allergens through residual contact, all students are expected to wash their hands after meals.
• Any activities involving food in common areas must be allergen-free and proper cleaning of tables and common areas must occur after any events in common areas.
• Threats to students with life-threatening allergies are considered bullying and will be addressed by RCS student discipline process. 
• Information about peanut allergies, how to read labels, peanut-free lunch alternatives, or birthday treat ideas will be available at the GRCES school office.

APPLIES TO ALL GRCES STUDENTS and FAMILIES IN CLASSROOMS WITH A PEANUT-ALLERGIC STUDENT:

• Children in classrooms who bring peanut products in their lunch will have these products removed and will be provided with a reasonable alternative if available.
• RCS maintains the right to declare a classroom a "Peanut-Free Zone" depending on the age of the allergic child and the severity of the allergy.
• If your child is in a "Peanut-Free Zone" classroom, you will be notified directly. (Peanut-Free Zone: Area where no products containing, processed with, or processed in a facility with peanuts is allowed due to risks of cross-contamination and accidental exposure.)

APPLIES TO STAFF AT GRAND RAPIDS CHRISTIAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AND STAFF OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL-AGED STUDENTS:

• The school (in partnership with parents, health officials, and other agencies) participates in ongoing school community education programs.
• The school trains staff on allergies, sources of allergens, avoidance techniques, identification of an allergic reaction in progress, and emergency response procedures. 
• Teachers in classrooms where life-threatening allergies are present may confiscate food that poses a danger to another student and may provide a safe alternative if one is available.
• Peanuts or peanut-contaminated materials are NOT utilized in any teacher-initiated activities (i.e. art projects, baking projects, games, etc.)

The Rockford Christian School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) would like to extend a warm welcome to all new and returning families! We are a volunteer organization made up of parents and staff who have the privilege of supporting our school community throughout the year.

RCS is a community dependent on parent/guardian involvement. Your contributions, through sharing of your time, knowledge, and resources make a difference. We encourage you to prayerfully consider how you can volunteer at RCS this year!

We look forward to a great school year! Look for the weekly home bulletin email. This communication will include important PTO sign-up links as well as information regarding fun PTO-sponsored events throughout the year. 

We are thankful for the blessing of a strong Christian community at RCS and for the support of families. Thank you for your continued faithful commitment to our staff and students!

Family Time

• Family Time happens each Monday from 8:45 — 9:15 am in the worship center. 
• Parents are invited to worship with us!

Visitors

• Doors to the building will remain locked during the school day.
• In the event that you need to visit the school outside of the designated drop-off, pick-up, or family time, all visitors must check in at the office.

Specific bus routes with pick-up and drop-off locations will be determined by Grand Rapids Christian Schools and/orRockford Public Schools and communicated through the GRCS Transportation Department. Questions regarding busing should be directed to the GRCS Transportation Department at 616.574.5710 or transportation@grcs.org. 

Dear Grand Rapids Christian Middle School Families,

I am hopeful that this time of the year yields you and your family opportunities for a change of pace and some important time together. We are busy getting ready for a new school year at Grand Rapids Christian Middle School! Some changes are taking place as we prepare to serve over 450 students next year! A new room is being converted into a classroom, the kitchen is being renovated to efficiently serve our students nutritious meals and our crew is busy polishing everything up as good as new! I am grateful for your commitment to entrust your children to us! We look forward to building relationships with you and your children well. As we get to know you better, it is our prayer that we will be able to serve you with excellence. By serving children at Grand Rapids Christian Middle School, we serve our Lord - together. Our mission is to “prepare students to be effective servants of Christ in contemporary society.” 

This year Grand Rapids Christian Schools’ unified district-wide theme is “Come, follow me.” // «Vengan, siganme» We believe that having a districtwide theme can be a powerful way to express the already shared vision across our campuses and to deepen this connection even further. We will focus on the Bible verse from Mark 1:17.  “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”  «Vengan, síganme —les dijo Jesús—, y los haré pescadores de hombres» This is Jesus’ call to discipleship and is found at the beginning of each of the four gospels (Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 1:16-20; Luke 5:27-28; John 1:43). In each case, Jesus seeks out and calls someone by name and that person responds in faith and obedience. God calls; people follow. That’s the Christian life in summary: God’s gracious calling leads to a life of obedience. Grace produces discipleship. While the theme for the year arises from Jesus’s call to discipleship found in the gospels, the call to follow is the story of faith found throughout all of the Bible. God calls; his people follow.

Before we know it, August will be upon us, as will the start of a new school year. I would like to highlight the first two events for you to be involved in with your children at Grand Rapids Christian Middle School this year so that they are on your family calendar: 

• Back to School Open House: Monday, August 15, from 6:30 — 8:00 pm. You and your child(ren) are invited to check out the classroom(s) and connect and/or re-connect with teachers and friends. Please come and go as you are able this evening. We look forward to seeing you!
• “Classroom Connect:” Thursday, September 8, at 6:30 pm. This is an opportunity for parents to meet with our teachers face-to-face, and learn about routines and expectations for the year. 

The Back-to-School page on our website contains all the pertinent information you need in regards to returning to school. You are making a great investment in your child(ren)'s education, and I encourage you to be familiar with the details that will hep make this a great experience for them.

Homeroom and schedule information will be available in early August. This information can be found by logging into ParentVue or StudentVue, selecting the student(s) whose schedule you wish to view, and then clicking on “Class Schedule.” Again, this information will not be available until early August and could still be subject to change as final details for 2022-2023 are confirmed.

As we look ahead to the upcoming school year, we do so with complete reliance on our Lord to provide for all of our needs. We covet your prayers for the 2022-2023 school year: for the students and families who will be part of our GRCMS community, for the GRCMS staff members preparing for the year, and for the many preparations that happen yet in August. We look forward to the coming school year as God continues to shape us into His servants and as He teaches us how to follow Him.

Blessings!

Student Supply List 2023-2024

Supplies to be purchased by students.  Supplies may need to be replenished during the year as needed.

Fifth Grade

• 2 spiral notebooks 

• 1 pocket folder for homework (folders for other subjects provided)

• 3 dozen sharpened pencils

• Pencil sharpener

• 1 highlighter

• 1 scissors

• 1 black Sharpie marker

• 1 large glue stick

• Colored pencils 

• Wide-tip markers

• Pair of earbuds to keep at school (with mic optional)

• Calculator with an exponent feature

Sixth Grade 

• Pair of earbuds to keep at school 

• Pencils

• Pencil box

• 2 or 3 highlighters

• 4 - 1” binders (1 per class: Social Studies, Science, Math, ELA)

• Loose-leaf notebook paper - some in each binder

• Erasers 

• Calculator - TI-30 XIIS (Amazon link for the calculator)

Seventh Grade 

• 1 pair of earbuds

• Planner (optional)

• 6 (1”) Binders (1 per class: Bible, ELA, Science, Math, History, Spanish/ASL)

• Loose-leaf notebook paper

• 1 subject spiral bound notebook

• Pencils

• Pens

• Erasers

• Calculator – each student is required to have their own calculator

• Colored pencils and/or markers 

• Spanish Students: 1 (1”) binder with five dividers and loose leaf paper

Eighth Grade

• 6 (1”) Binders (1 per class: Bible, ELA, Science, Math, History, Spanish/ASL)

• Bible - to be left at school

• 1 Pair of earbuds to keep in your laptop case (with mic optional)

• 2 sets of dividers (5 each) for Math and Spanish 

• Calculator (scientific) Here is a good option, TI-30X IIS

• Pens, pencils, erasers, colored pencils (not markers)

• Highlighters

school supply list

Back to School Open House

Monday, August 15, from 6:30 — 8:00 pm  
You and your child(ren) are invited to come and check out the classroom(s) and connect and/or re-connect with teachers and friends. Please come and go as you are able this evening. We look forward to seeing you!

Forms

If you have not already done so, be sure to submit the required health appraisal form, up-to-date immunization record or certified waiver, birth certificate and the concussion awareness form  to the school office. Your child will not be able to start school until these forms and documents have been submitted. We want them to be with us right away so please get those forms in!

You will find these forms along with other required back to school forms by using the Forms and Documents button on the right.

Classes begin on Wednesday, August 17, at 8:00 am, with dismissal at noon.  Lunch will not be served at school on the first day. There will be no gym pick ups on half days.

At Grand Rapids Christian Schools, the safety of your children is of utmost importance to us. As our school campus is situated on a major traffic artery and street, your cooperation is needed. During the times middle school children are driven to school and picked up after school, the guidelines listed below must be followed. 

1. Doors open and students can arrive at school as early as 7:30 am daily. There is not a before school care program at GRCMS.

2. During drop-off and pick-up times, the half circle drive and parking area on Chesaning Street are FOR BUS DROP OFF ONLY. Drop-off times are 7:30 - 8:15 am and pick-up times are 2:45 - 3:15 pm.

3. Parents and high school drivers should drop students off and/or pick them up in the flow-through parking lots along Shiawassee Street. There are arrows and signs marking the flow of traffic through this lot. Students can enter through doors on the south side of the building.

4. There are trained crossing guards at the corners of Chesaning and Burton (Englewood and Burton) and at Chesaning and Shiawassee to help student walkers and bikers safely cross during drop-off and pick-up times.

5. Bikers should have bike locks and must park their bikes on racks during the school day (one stationed near the playground and Chesaning Street; the other near the gym along Shiawassee Street).

6. There is absolutely no student drop-off, pick-up, or parking allowed along Chesaning Street. 

Thank you for cooperating with our traffic flow and safe passage guidelines. We appreciate your partnership and are excited to serve your families this coming school year!
 

GRCMS Athletics Information 2022-23

Welcome to Grand Rapids Christian Middle School. If you are interested in exploring athletics at GRCMS, please follow the instructions below!

1. Visit the athletics website.

2. Sign up for a sports camp this summer:

3. Sign up for a Team in the fall! This is a great way to have fun and get connected to the community at GRCMS. To sign up, go to the website and click on the sport you want to sign up for in the fall. Make sure your email is typed in correctly!

4. Get “Email Ready.” Make sure your email inbox is ready to receive communication from our coaches and from the athletic director. Coaches send weekly information to help you stay organized throughout the season. Important season start-up information is sent through email as well.

5. Parent Meeting: This is as close to “a must attend” as we can get. The meeting is built specifically to help inform parents how to navigate middle school sports as a fan, how to work with coaches, discuss FAQs, and most importantly how to help your child positively experience athletics. The meeting date will be emailed to you in early August if you have signed up for a sport. 

If you have questions after going through the tasks above, please contact Kevin Broene, the GRCMS Athletic Director.

* GRCS Recreation Department: Contact Stacey Boender, Recreation Director, for information about  football, and boys and girls lacrosse, or visit the Recreation website.

The State of Michigan requires that your child(ren) be immunized for enrollment at Grand Rapids Christian Schools. Each year we must report every student enrolled in preschool, kindergarten, seventh grade, and those that are new to our district. I have included the Required Childhood Immunization Schedule set forth by the State of Michigan.

Please also note that the State of Michigan has revised its law on immunization waivers.

• If you intend to complete a non-medical waiver to the immunization policy, you must contact the Kent County Health Department at 616.632.7200 to schedule an appointment to speak with a health educator, complete the waiver process and submit the original certified waiver to the school office.
• The original certified medical waivers must be completed and signed by a physician then submitted to the school office.

Written evidence that immunizations are now up to date or a copy of a certified waiver must be received before the start of the school year and is due by or on August 10, 2022. A new waiver is required each year that your child is reported. This will allow for proper processing prior to the first day of classes.

Please feel free to contact Kristi Elzinga if you have any questions. We appreciate your attention to this matter. It is our top priority to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all students.

Every year, GRCMS has students who are diagnosed with severe and potentially life-threatening allergies to peanuts and nut products. As a Christian school community, we have a legal and ethical obligation to follow their physician’s recommendations to safeguard their health. 

GRCMS is not a completely nut-free school. When we are officially notified of a child’s diagnosis and/or their need for this kind of accommodation, GRCMS designates  peanut-free/nut-free classrooms where no nut products of any kind are allowed into the classroom. 

The Grand Rapids Christian Middle School Parent Teacher Organization would like to extend a warm welcome to all new and returning families. We are looking forward to a new school year and getting you connected when it works into  your schedule.  

GRCMS PTO is a volunteer organization made up of parents, teachers, and administrators who help support the educational opportunities and extracurricular activities for our school.  

The PTO is dependent on financial support, participation, coordination, and most importantly, prayer. Your contributions to our organization make a difference. As more opportunities arise, we will communicate these with you. There will be additional information available at our ‘Back to School’ Open House on Monday, August 15.  

If you would like more information about how to get involved in GRCMS PTO, please contact Rene Sherman or Kelli VanDrunen. Thank you in advance for all your help!

Specific bus routes with pick-up and drop-off locations will be determined by Grand Rapids Christian Schools and/or Grand Rapids Public Schools and communicated through the GRCS Transportation Department. Questions regarding busing should be directed to the GRCS Transportation Department at 616.574.5710 or transportation@grcs.org. 

Dear GRCHS Families, 

We pray that your family is healthy and enjoying a summer free from the busyness of the school year. Although the summer brings so many wonderful things, we are excited to welcome back our students in the fall!

Our theme for the upcoming school year is “Oaks of Righteousness” and comes from Isaiah 61:3, “They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor.” In its context (verses 1-3), the phrase captures something about the very essence of what it means to be called by God and to live faithfully for him; in fact, it is the very passage that Jesus quoted at the beginning of his earthly ministry (Lk 4:18-19). To be an ‘oak of righteousness” is to be someone who seeks the justice, goodness, and flourishing of others wherever God has planted or put them. As we explore this theme throughout the year, we are excited to see how, like the growth of an acorn into a mighty oak, God grows within us the fruit of the Christian life. 

We are also excited to welcome new faculty and staff to GRCHS for the upcoming school year. We are grateful for God’s faithfulness in bringing passionate Christian educators to our team.

• Vanessa Marble joins us as our new dean of students, overseeing the parent/student handbook. Ms. Marble is a former GRCS parent and is returning to Grand Rapids after living in Muskegon for a few years. Most recently, she served as the assistant principal at Muskegon Catholic Central. Before that, Ms. Marble spent time as a building principal in the Muskegon Heights district. She loves leading worship at her church and spending time with her four children.

• Rebecca Polet will continue to teach social studies, but will also take on the new role of academic program coordinator. Mrs. Polet recently completed her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. In this new role, she will be working with teachers on curriculum, instruction, and assessment. Mrs. Polet and her husband welcomed their first baby, Elias, early this summer. 

• Yeo Myeong Yoon joins our math department after graduating from Calvin University in the spring. Ms. Yoon completed her student teaching at Potter’s House high school and is excited to bring her passion for students and math to GRCHS.

• Jenn Benson is joining our social studies team after teaching at West Michigan Aviation Academy for eight years. Mrs. Benson will be teaching psychology, world history, and US history. Her two children will be at Evergreen preschool and the Olivia Haverkamp Early Learning Center this fall. 

• Austin Heeres is also joining our social studies team this year, teaching economics and government. Mr. Heeres had a variety of roles at GRCHS this past year and coaches the Eagles in both football and baseball. 

Our faculty and staff desire to create a school culture where each member of our Christian school community can thrive. In order to do this, the administration and student leaders created a set of guidelines for how we behave based on our district values of Christ, Community, and Commitment. We call these shared behaviors the Eagle Blueprint. We encourage you to spend time with your student reviewing both the Eagle Blueprint and the parent-student handbook.

We know that there are countless details for your family to manage as we start the new year. The Back to School page contains all the pertinent information you need in regards to returning to school. You are making a great investment in your child(ren)’s education, and we encourage you to be familiar with the details that will help make this a great experience for them.

We recognize that there likely will be ongoing questions as we return to school. We will be in regular communication throughout the fall, but do not hesitate to call the office at 616.574.5500 with any questions. 

We look forward to seeing each student at orientation on August 9 - 15, and all parents at back-to-school night on August 22 (more detailed invitation coming soon). Thank you for your prayers and partnership as we prepare students to use their gifts for lives of service for Christ!

Sincerely, 

We are hard at work planning for the August 16 start date. Here you will find our daily schedule. This schedule allows for flexibility and reflects educational research on best practices for student learning. Please note the following details about our schedule. 

• Days where periods one through four meet are referred to as "A days." Days where periods five through eight meet are "B days." The calendar for A and B days can be found below.
• Each Monday, Wednesday and Friday we will have a "late start" at 8:35 am. 
  • Monday and Wednesday mornings are set aside for teacher collaboration
  • Every Friday teachers will have office hours for students from 7:55 -8:30 am. 
  • Note: The building is open for students to arrive early if late arrival is difficult
• We have one lunch period daily. This allows students to eat together in the All City Gym and other designated areas.
• Chapel meets every Tuesday in the Center for Arts and Worship. There will be a short "community time" where we meet for praise and worship in the CAW or meet in small groups in a designated location.
• Our first day, Wednesday, August 16 will have a slightly different schedule to accommodate a pep rally in the Quest Center gym. Below is the schedule for the first week of school.

The Grand Rapids Christian High School Curriculum Guide helps you gain a solid understanding of the course offerings and policies at Grand Rapids Christian High School.

GRCS provides all actively enrolled high school students for the 2023-2024 school year the following: 

1. One 13.3” MacBook Air laptop
2. One snap-on hard case during a student’s tenure at GRCHS which must be kept on at all times to protect the laptop from scratches and scuffs (student provides their own padded layer of protection)
3. Coverage of all minor repairs as well as minor wear and tear of the GRCS laptop
4. Laptop support during school hours at the GRCHS Help Desk

ORIENTATION DAY

At their assigned orientation day in August, students must do the following: 

1. Bring a laptop carrying case, laptop sleeve, or padded backpack to ensure an added layer of protection
2. Sign the Secondary Technology Agreement (parents signed this during the enrollment process)
3. Spend about 15 minutes setting up the laptop, logging into accounts, and viewing the required information

MAINTENANCE AND SUPPORT

Students are expected to take care of their school-issued laptops. Staff and parents are asked to intervene if they witness behavior by students that reflect an inappropriate use of technology or behaviors that could lead to laptop damage.  

Students are required to report any incidents with their laptops to the GRCHS Help Desk in a timely manner. Replacement parts must be purchased by GRCS because our warranty requires us to use Apple-certified products.

The GRCHS student fee assessed with enrollment covers minor repairs and minor wear and tear on the GRCS laptop. Technology staff will review incidents where accident, neglect, or abuse is the cause, and when additional costs need to be assessed. If additional costs are assessed, you will be billed, and payment is expected within 30-days. If payment is not received or if students have multiple incidents in a school year, access to the school laptop will be restricted. Damages are photographed for record-keeping purposes. Additional costs include, but are not limited to: 

1. Loss of power supply parts – Freshman/Sophomores $58 (Charging block and cable). Junior/Seniors $75 (Charging block and AC wall plug)
2. Replacement of broken or non-functioning parts such as a broken screen – Additional fee up to $200
3. Replacement costs due to loss, theft (police report required), or excessive damage such as a liquid spill – Additional fee up to $500

PARENT/GUARDIAN TOOLS

1. ParentVUE: Available online or as a mobile app, ParentVUE provides access to student schedules, assignments, grades, report cards, course history, attendance, and more. An activation code is required from the school office if you have not yet set up your account.
2. GRCS App: Download the GRCS Mobile app from your app store to quickly access information from our website, calendars, and news feeds. 
3. GRCS Parent Portal: Parents can set up an account using the email address on their ParentVUE account to access online directories, pay for hot lunch, and more.
4. Instructions to these portals and further technology information are available on our website.  Video tutorials are located on the GRCS Tech YouTube channel.

Questions?

Questions can be addressed to Sheila VanderWoude, Director of Technology, by email or at 616.574.5810. 

Given that driving to and parking at school is a privilege and not a right, Grand Rapids Christian High School expects that students to whom the privilege is extended abide by the regulations listed below.

REGULATIONS:

1. All vehicles driven to school that are used by students and staff must be registered in the school office and a 2023-24 registration sticker must be properly affixed to the front passenger-side window. Each student must submit a written application with parental signature for a parking permit.  
2. Notes on parking:
   • Applications for parking permits are due in the school office by August 11, 2023 
   • Parking permits are distributed at orientation
   • If a student begins driving during the year, a permit can be requested at that time
3. If you change a car during the year, you must register the new car in the office. You can transfer the sticker to the new car or request a new sticker.
4. Student vehicles are to be parked properly in designated white line parking spaces, in the student parking areas. Please note: The service drive on the east side of the school is a fire lane and may not be used for parking. Students must park in the student parking area, not in the visitor spaces, yellow-lined spaces, or in the staff lot.
5. Cars not normally driven to school must be registered with a day permit in the school office either the afternoon before or at the beginning of the school day.
6. The Shawnee Church circle drive and lower lot are off-limits to the school. The school service drive and bus turnaround circle may not be used by students for parking. In order to be a good neighbor and because of the congested traffic situation on the narrow streets surrounding the school, student parking on streets is not allowed.

VIOLATIONS:

1. Students who drive unregistered vehicles to school will be fined $15.
2. Students who park a registered or unregistered vehicle on one of the streets near the school, such as Plymouth, Tecumseh, Okemos, Menominee, and Tekonsha will be subject to $15 parking fines.
3. Parking in the areas designated for staff or visitors results in a $15 fine.
4. Student parking is not allowed:
   • Outside white-lined parking spaces
   • In yellow-lined parking spaces
   • On curbed areas designated as fire lanes
   • On curbed areas painted blue or yellow
   • On sidewalks or other walkways

These violations are subject to a $15 fine. Repeat offender fines are subject to increased fines and potential loss of parking privilege.

5. Students who, without permission, use their vehicles to leave campus or take other students off campus, other than at the end of the school day, risk their parking permit and driving privileges.

6. Persons parking in the Handicapped spaces may be ticketed by the Grand Rapids Police Department. The minimum fine is $75.

Repeated violations may result in the loss of driving privileges to and from school or suspension from school.

MISCELLANEOUS:

1. The School Board has given civil authorities the right to search vehicles in designated school parking lots.

2. All vehicles are to remain unoccupied while parked in any lot. Students who need to access their cars during the school day must receive permission from the attendance office. No vehicle may be driven in the lot except to enter or exit the premises during the school day or for a school sponsored activity.

3. All vehicles are to be driven with care. RECKLESS DRIVING OF ANY KIND IS PROHIBITED AND COULD RESULT IN SUSPENSION OR LOSS OF DRIVING PRIVILEGES.

4. All vehicles must be driven on designated roadways, never over curbs, grass, etc.

Violations of numbers three and four are subject to a minimum $25 fine.

DRIVING PARKING APPLICATION

Though they are not a requirement, senior pictures are a special way to celebrate and recognize the Class of 2024 in the yearbook. Please keep the following guidelines in mind as you consider your yearbook photo submission:

1. Senior pictures are not required. If you do not wish to submit a senior picture, your school ID picture, if you had one taken on Picture Day will be used.
2. Please follow the guidelines for appropriate dress in the GRCHS Parent-Student Handbook.
3. Photos containing photoshop, copyrighted material, and or props will not be published.
4. All photos will be published in the yearbook as a vertical headshot, cropped to 2”x3” size, .jpg digital images with at least a 300 DPI. Do your best to submit a photo that meets this guideline. It allows us to publish the best possible image and reduces the need for additional cropping of your photo.
5. Digital images may be submitted via email to Ms. Das by November 3, 2023.
6. Photos must be in color, the face should be forward facing and fully visible

Due to our strict publishing deadlines, which ensure the yearbook arrives prior to graduation, late photos CANNOT be accepted. Please note the following deadlines:

• Senior pictures MUST be received by Friday, November 4, 2022
• Senior recognition ads can be purchased on Jostens, the due date is typically in December

Please pay attention to your emails about purchasing your 2023-2024 yearbook and senior recognition advertisement from Jostens.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Rona Das 
Yearbook Website

Clubs are added throughout the school year. The best way to learn about new clubs is to check the high school morning announcements, or for more information about these opportunities, contact Eric Taylor, Dean of Student Life.

High School Counseling Department

Parent drop-off and pick-up are located at the Plymouth turnaround. Please do not drop off or pick up your student in the back of the school as that is used exclusively for bussing. Student drivers with parking passes should park either in the stadium lot or in the lot next to Shawnee Park CRC. Note that students may enter through either the main office or the student entrance behind the school. When school starts, the student entrance locks, and everyone must enter through the office. We ask that all drivers follow the speed limits in the surrounding neighborhood as we seek to be good neighbors.

Classes begin August 16. All students will have their complete class schedule accessible on StudentVUE and ParentVUE the evening of Tuesday, August 8. For planning and accuracy, review your first semester schedule. 

For more information on how to set up your ParentVUE or website portal, please click on the ParentVue and Website Parent Portal button on the right side of the screen.

During the scheduling process, every effort was made to give each student the courses they requested for the 2023/24 school year. If the student has a complete and error-free schedule, it is considered to be their FINAL schedule. Changes to a student's schedule at this time are discouraged because the changes may create class overloads, imbalances, and unworkable schedules. Requests for specific teachers, specific class periods, or for social reasons (friends) cannot be accommodated. 

Schedule changes that are necessary and do not fall within the above categories will be given consideration during a brief one-week Red Zone Period prior to the start of the semester. Students may request the necessary schedule changes the week of August 11-15. The process for requesting a schedule change is as follows:

• Complete a Digital Schedule Change Request Form 
• State a compelling reason. The request must meet the approval of the Registrar and their counselor, as well as the above guidelines 
• Students will be notified via email if their request has been approved or denied. 

NO CHANGES WILL BE MADE AFTER THE DEADLINE - Tuesday, August 15.

Parents, plan on visiting us during our Back to School Night on Tuesday, August 22. There is a brief presentation in the Center for Arts and Worship at 6:30 pm., followed by an opportunity to walk through your student’s schedule from 7:15 pm —  8:45 pm, to meet their teachers and hear about each course. 

Specific bus routes with pick-up and drop-off locations will be determined by Grand Rapids Christian Schools and/or Grand Rapids Public Schools and communicated through the GRCS Transportation Department. Questions regarding busing should be directed to the GRCS Transportation Department at 616.574.5710 or transportation@grcs.org.