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 partner with you and your child's teachers in order to provide them with a top-notch Christian learning experience.

I'm excited to share our system-wide theme this year. “Be still and know/Estén quietos, y sepan” is based on Psalm 46:10 which says, "He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.’” We have so much going on in our lives. Scripture tells us to pause (be still), and know that God has got this (know that I am God). Know that he is our Creator, Savior and is sovereign over all, even when things seem like they’re getting out of control. In the midst of that, let’s all pause and reflect on the truth that God’s got this. 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 so excited to welcome you to a new school year. Your partnership in your child’s education is something we are so passionate about and incredibly grateful for. Thank 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!)
• 3 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

• Colored pencils (24 count – sharpened)
• 1 small glue stick
• 24 pre-sharpened pencils (Ticonderoga preferred)
• Plastic pencil box 
• Tennis shoes for P.E. (to be left at school all year)
• Water bottle (spill proof water bottle with sip top)
• Pencils, scissors, markers, erasers, and folders will be supplied by school
• Strongly 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)
• 1 pkg. of 8-10 markers, classic colors and broad tipped
• 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)
• Clear plastic pencil box (9”x5”)
• 1 pkg. of 8-10 Markers, classic colors and broad tipped
• 1 pkg. Expo dry erase markers (thin markers)
• Scissors
• Highlighter  
• 3+ pack of Classic Post-it-notes (3x3 size, not accordion-style)
• Tennis shoes for PE (to be left at school all year)
• 18+ pack of yellow No. 2 Ticonderoga pre-sharpened pencils (for classroom supply)
• Water bottle with spill proof top
• Headphones with 3.5 mm plug (with name on it, less than $30)
• Active Public Library card

Fourth Grade

• 12 or more pre-sharpened pencils
• 2 large glue sticks
• Crayons (16 count)
• Colored pencils (12 count)
• Pencil box 
• 1 pkg. of 8-10 markers (classic colors, broad tip)
• 1 pkg. dry erase markers 
• Scissors
• 3 pads of Post-it-notes (3x3 size)
• Tennis shoes for PE (to be left at school all year) 
• Recommended: Headphones with 3.5 mm plug (with name on it, less than $30)

Printable List

We are celebrating the start of the school year with an Open House for students and parents on Monday, August 19. 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

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

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 5 — Required documentation due at the school office 
• August 20 — First Day of Kindergarten, half-day — dismissal at 12:10 pm 
• August 30 & September 2 — No School, Labor Day Weekend
• See the school calendar for full details.

Required Documentation – Due Monday, August 5, 2024 

The following documents must be turned in to the school office no later than Monday, August 5, 2024:

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. These forms can be handed in directly to the school office, faxed to 616.574.6510 or scanned and emailed to GRCESDocuments@grcs.org.

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

Questions?

If you have questions, please contact our Admissions Director Jessie Renz .

Classes begin on Tuesday, August 20, at 8:10 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 (only) off Iroquois.
• Pull up as far as you can in the circle drive to ensure an efficient drop-off process.
• Students that are car riders may not be dropped off by the playground or the Eagle TRIP door. 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. 
• 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-4 students, enter the circle drive using the main South entrance (only) off Iroquois. 
• Pull up as far as you can in the circle drive to ensure an efficient pick-up process
• PLEASE do not enter the car line until 3:00 pm. Children will not start entering cars until 3:10 when the bells ring. 
• The car line is supervised until all of the students are picked up.  
• 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-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 19 from 4:30 - 5:30 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 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 nurse at KCHD 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 5, 2024. A new waiver is required each year that your child is reported. This allows for proper processing prior to the first day of classes. These forms can be handed in directly to the school office, faxed to 616.574.6510 or scanned and emailed to GRCESDocuments@grcs.org

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. 

Emergency drills are something we practice each school year. These drills are not only practice, but are also a requirement from the state of Michigan. Drills are all carried out with the sole purpose of keeping kids safe, which is our number one priority. 

Each school year, students and staff will practice five fire drills, two severe weather drills, and three lockdown drills. Your child’s teacher will let you know when emergency drills will take place in their weekly communication. While practice is important, we also recognize that all of these drills can be alarming to your child, and as your partners in their learning, we want to share some of the language we use at school so you can better support them at home.  It is not necessary to talk about drills with your child beforehand, but hopefully this is helpful for you if the conversation comes up.

• Why do we do a drill? A drill means to practice. We practice so we have a plan.  A plan keeps you calm and safe. 

• Teachers expect students to be quiet, ready to listen, and participate to ensure the drill goes smoothly.  

• We are going to do a fire drill. This is our plan in the unlikely event that there is a fire.

• We are going to practice what we do for a big storm or unsafe weather. This is our plan in the unlikely event that there is unsafe weather. 

• We are going to do a lockdown drill. This is our plan in the unlikely event there is an unsafe stranger near our community. 

Some further suggestions:

• We encourage you to ask your child how the drill went. If they don’t have much to say, that is just fine. 

• If they do have more questions, listen and answer those questions. Let your child lead. 

• Acknowledge any feelings that have come up for your child.

• You can reiterate to your child that our school carries these out to keep them safe.

• A calm and confident tone will be most helpful when having conversations with your child.

• The Iroquois Campus has a lot of safety and security measures in place to keep them safe. 

Please reach out to us anytime with questions about drills or how to further support your child at home. Thanks so much for your partnership!

Homeroom Teachers 2024 - 2025

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

All Students

• Large backpack without wheels and need to fit a folder, library book and lunch bag

• Water bottle

• Weather appropriate outdoor gear – recess remains outdoors as much as possible

Preschool

• Extra set of clothing (shirt, pants, socks, and underwear) placed in a gallon-size Ziploc bag with your child’s name written on the front. 

• For all day students, a small blanket for rest time. 

Teams 1, 2, & 3

• Wired Headphones that fit over the ear (not earbuds)

• Tennis shoes for P.E. to keep in locker

All additional supplies for students will be provided by GRCES – Evergreen. 

For families who desire to participate in back-to-school shopping with their child(dren), below is a sample of classroom materials. 

Team 1

• 6 large glue sticks (no liquid glue)

• 1 set  of Crayola washable markers

• 24 pack of Crayola crayons

• 4 white board markers

• 5 #2 pencils, sharpened

• 1 pair of scissors

• 1 pack of Post-it Notes (any color)

• Box of Ziploc Bags (any size)

Team 2

• 1 Large Glue Stick

• 4 white board markers

• 1 pack of washable markers

• 1 pack of colored pencils (12 pack)

Team 3 

• 1 pack of colored markers

• 1 Supply box (for pencils, markers, highlights.etc) 

• 4 Highlighters

• 4 white board markers

Printable supply list

The K-5 Open House will be held on Monday, August 19, 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 Monday, August 26. 

Required Documentation – Due Tuesday, August 20, 2024

The documents listed below must be on file for each Kindergarten student. Completed forms can be mailed to the school office at 1630 Griggs St SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506, emailed to Allison VanHarn at avanharn@grcs.org or brought to the open house on Monday, August 19. Forms must be on file by Tuesday, August 20, the first day of school.

FORMS REQUIRED FOR KINDERGARTEN:

• A copy of your child’s birth certificate 

• An up to date 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. 

• An official copy of your child’s up-to-date immunization record from your child’s doctor or a certified waiver. 

• Concussion Awareness Form (if not completed during a previous year at GRCS)

FORMS NEEDED AS APPLICABLE 

• Major Medical or Life-Threatening Allergies: To be completed for all students who have a medical condition that has not already been provided through the 2024-25 verification process.

• 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. 

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 Tuesday, August 20, 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

• Location: Evergreen turnaround drive and parking lot, 1630 Griggs St. (one-way traffic west to east).

• Drop-Off: Pull into the pick-up lane, proceed to the east end as far as possible, and drop off your student(s).

• Assistance: If your student needs help unbuckling, park in a space to assist them safely.

• Parking spaces: As much as possible, reserve parking spaces for ELC & preschool families. 

After School Pick-Up Procedure

• Adult verification: Notify the school when your child is being picked up by someone not listed in your ParentVue “release to” section. Unfamiliar adults will be asked to display ID prior to pick-up.   

• Pick-Up: Enter the lot, pull into the pick-up lane, and proceed to the east end. Staff will walk students to the pick-up line. Remain in your vehicle.

• Safety:

  • If you need to exit your car or assist with buckling, park in the designated spaces. 

  • Avoid crossing through traffic or between cars. 

  • Staff members are to remain on the sidewalks monitoring students; parents and caregivers are responsible for walking children from the sidewalk to a parking space

• Late Pick-Up: Students not picked up by 3:15 pm will be taken to the office. Call the school office at 616.574.5900 if delayed.

Contact: For questions, contact Principal Graham Schultze at 616.574.5902. Thank you for ensuring the safety of our students and 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 Allison VanHarn 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. 

• Lunch & Milk: Available for purchase for preschool through 5th grade.

• Ordering:

  • K-5th grade: Place daily lunch orders (hot or cold) in the classroom each morning.

  • Full-day Preschool: Pre-order sack lunches or milk weekly by Monday morning. The order link will be sent out by your classroom teacher each week.

• Milk Options: Chocolate or white milk included with lunch purchase. Milk can also be ordered separately.

• More Info: Click the "Hot Lunch" button on the right side of the screen for menus, pricing, payment, and free/reduced lunch applications.

• Snacks: Families must provide nutritious snacks and a water bottle for morning snack time.

Dear Rockford Christian School Families,

Summer is a season of fullness and bounty – long days, full gardens, gatherings with family and friends. School, however, feels empty without your kids! We miss each of you at RCS and eagerly look forward to our first half-day of school on Tuesday, August 20.

Our theme for the 24-25 school year, “Be still and know” (Psalm 46), will help us think deeply about the comfort and strength that come from knowing God. We tend to think a lot in schools about what we know and how we know it – I’m grateful that our year-long theme will keep us rooted in what it means to know God. 

This page contains all the information you need for 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.  

The new school year kicks off in earnest with our Back-to-School BBQ and Open House hosted by our PTO on Monday, August 19. The barbecue will be available between 5:00 and 7:00 pm and the Open House will run from 5:30 to 7:00 pm. Please come out to reconnect with friends, meet folks new to our community, find your teachers, check out classrooms, and share a meal together.

We will also be hosting a Classroom Connect on the evening of Monday, September 9. 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. More information from your child’s classroom teacher will be shared in August.

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,
Ben Buursma
Rockford Christian School Principal
 

Join us for our Back-to-School BBQ and Open House on Monday, August 19. 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 

Welcome to Kindergarten! To start our school year, we require the following forms. These forms must be submitted prior to the start of the school year. Completed forms can be mailed to the school office at 6060 Belding Rd, Rockford, MI 49341, emailed to Kristin Buursma, or brought to the open house on Monday, August 19.

Forms required at the start of Kindergarten: 

1. An up-to-date Health Appraisal Form *note, this is a two-page document 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. 
3. A copy of your child’s birth certificate if not already submitted
4. 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 major 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/pr dispensed at school. 

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

Forms

Welcome to Rockford Christian's new school year! 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. These forms must be submitted prior to the start of the school year. Completed forms can be mailed to the school office at 6060 Belding Rd, Rockford, MI 49341, emailed to Kristin Buursma, or brought to the open house on Monday, August 19.

Communication

Rockford Christian wants to stay in touch with our families. Please watch for  school-wide news arriving in the form of a home bulletin emailed on Tuesday afternoons. Join the private Rockford Christian Parent Facebook page for quick reminders and fun snapshots of day-to-day activities.

Classes will begin on Tuesday, August 20, at 8:30 am, with dismissal at 11:30 am. Lunch will not be served at school on the first day.

Student arrival and dismissal procedures help everyone at Rockford Christian stay safe as they begin and end their day at school. Staff, parents, and students all have a part to play in maintaining a calm, controlled, and respectful environment during these important times of the day.

K-8 Student Arrival Procedure

Student arrival begins at 8:15 am.
Students who arrive before 8:15 am must be registered for Kids Care.

Parents/guardians may either park and walk their student into the building or use the drop-off line under the main overhang.

• Parents/guardians dropping off their students inside are asked to leave the building by 8:30 am so that classrooms may begin their school day.
• Parents/guardians who use the drop-off line must remain in their vehicles.
  • No parking is allowed in the drop off area. If you wish to get out of your vehicle, please park your vehicle in the parking lot.
• Students who arrive after 8:35 am should stop in the office before heading to class.

K-8 Student Dismissal Procedure

Student dismissal begins at 3:20 pm. 
Students who are unable to be picked up by 3:30 pm must be registered with Kids Care in advance.  

Teachers will walk their students to the west entrance at the end of the day. Parents/guardians may either park and wait for their student outside or use the pick-up line at the west entrance. 

K-8 Pick-up Line Procedure

• Tell the dismissal staff whom you are picking up and pull forward to the furthest numbered sign.

• Staff will direct students to their appropriate vehicle.

• Wait in the line until all cars are dismissed at the same time. Do not exit the line early.

• Parents who use the pick–up line must remain in their vehicles.

  • No parking is allowed in the pick–up area. If you wish to get out of your vehicle to assist your child, please park in the parking lot.

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 19, 2024. 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 Kristin Buursma 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.

Rockford Christian School

Peanut and tree nut policy 

This policy covers all students, staff and visitors and all school-related activities to ensure the safety of students with peanut and tree nut allergies while accommodating the dietary preferences of others.

Allergy identification and communication:

• Parents/guardians must inform the school of known allergies through ParentVue verification or the school office.
• The school secretary will keep an updated list of students with allergies and inform relevant staff.

Classroom designation:

• Based on consultation with families, classrooms may be designated "Peanut-free" or "Nut-free" depending on students' allergies.

Peanut/nut-free classrooms

• No peanuts, tree nuts, or products containing them are allowed in peanut-free or nut-free classrooms.
• Parents will be notified if their child's classroom or grade is peanut-free or nut-free.

Classrooms without allergies:

• Nuts and products containing nuts are permitted in classrooms without allergies.

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” is Rockford Christian’s weekly chapel for Young 5’s through 8th grade. Here’s what you need to know:

• Family Time happens each Monday from 8:45-9:15 am in the worship center. 

• Classes take turns leading Family Time.

• There is a first-day-of-school Family Time at 10:45 am.

• There is a last-day-of-school Family Time at 8:45 am.

• Families are invited to attend! We hope to see you there.

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. Specific routes and pick-up times are generally shared with families in August.

Questions regarding GRCS busing should be directed to the GRCS Transportation Department at 616.574.5710 or transportation@grcs.org. 

Questions regarding RPS busing should be directed to Kristin Buursma or call the RPS bus garage at 616.863.6328.

Dear GRCMS 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. As I write this on a very hot summer day, I am grateful for the air conditioning that was installed at GRCMS last year!

Much has been happening at the middle school already since you have been away. The work crew has already come and gone, Mr. VanderPloeg is busy fixing things, polishing things up for us, and adding some new fun activities for us outdoors! This summer, our outdoor learning garden is expanding, and we are building a fence around it to keep the deer out! Finally, we are also equipping a few more of our classrooms with new furniture. We are eagerly preparing to serve over 460 students next year!

This year Grand Rapids Christian Schools’ unified district-wide theme is Be Still and Know -Psalm 46 // Estén Quietos y Sepan -Salmos 46.  We live in an increasingly high-paced society. For me, personally, I lean heavily on the reminder that God calls us to Be Still. God is always there, He is just waiting for us to quiet ourselves and listen to His voice. I am excited to see how God challenges each and every one of us to be still in His presence this year and learn from Him.

Before we know it, August will be upon us, as will the start of a new school year. Make sure that these first two events at GRCMS are on your family calendar: 

• Back to School Open House: Monday, August 19, from 6:30 - 8 p.m.

• Classroom Connect: Thursday, September 12, at 6:30 p.m.  This is an opportunity for parents to meet with our teachers face-to-face and to learn about routines and expectations for the year.

This Back to School page contains all the pertinent information you need in regard to returning to school. You are making an important 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.

For the safety of all children, please see the information regarding traffic patterns and before and after-school drop-offs and pick-ups. Enter through doors 1 & 5 this year. (Note, this is the same as last year, however doors have been renumbered.)

Homeroom and schedule information will be available 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.”

The middle school years are a fantastic time to stay involved with watching your children grow. Please see additional information from our PTO chair (Angelica Rodriguez) as to how you might like to be involved. These activities include ways to show appreciation to our staff members, welcome new and returning families, help raise some funds for the school, provide fun activities for students, and more! Parent support is an important part of our partnership at GRCMS. We could not do it without you! You can connect directly with the PTO at grcmspto@grcs.org.

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 2024-2025 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 2024-2025

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

Fifth Grade

• 2 single subject spiral notebooks 

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

• 3 dozen sharpened pencils

• 1 highlighter

• 1 scissors

• 1 black Sharpie marker

• Colored pencils 

• Wide-tip markers

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

• Calculator with an exponent feature

• Spanish Immersion Students: 1 2-pocket folder

Sixth Grade 

• Pair of earbuds to keep at school 

• 2 - 3 dozen sharpened pencils

• 2 or 3 highlighters

• 4 - one-inch binders (1 per class: Social Studies, Science, Math, ELA) or 1 three inch binder with dividers

• Loose-leaf notebook paper - some in each binder

• Calculator - TI-30 XIIS 

• Optional: Boots to leave at school for ravine projects

• Spanish Immersion Students: 1 one-inch binder

Seventh Grade 

• 1 pair of earbuds - student is required to have earbuds as they are used frequently.

• Planner (optional)

• 5 one-inch binders (1 per class: Bible, ELA, Science, Math, History)

• Loose-leaf notebook paper

• 1 subject spiral bound notebook

• Pencils

• Pens

• Erasers

• Calculator- TI-30 XIIS

• Colored pencils and/or markers 

• Spanish Immersion Students: 1 one-inch binder

• ASL Students: 1 two-pocket folder

Eighth Grade

• 6 one-inch binders (1 per class: Bible, ELA, Science, Math, History, Study Skills)

• 1 Pair of earbuds (with mic optional)

• 1 sets of five dividers  for Math

• Calculator - TI-30X IIS

• Pens

• Pencils

• Erasers

• Spanish Students: 1 one-inch binder with five dividers and loose leaf paper

• Spanish Immersion Students: 1 one-inch binder

• ASL Students: 1 two-pocket folder

printable school supply list

Back to School Open House

Monday, August 19, 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.

New Student Orientation

Monday, August 19, 9:45am-11:00am

This event is for new students who will be transferring to GRCMS from another school outside of Grand Rapids Christian Schools for the 2024-2025 school year. Students will meet their grade level teachers and Mrs. Sara Seth, Principal, will go over logistical information about life at GRCMS. Please RSVP by emailing Linda Vellenga with attendee names by Monday, August 12, 2024. Students may attend with or without their parents. We look forward to welcoming you!

Classes begin on Tuesday August 20, 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 GRCS, 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. 

Although there is a great deal of detail below, it is essential that you review and understand these directions for the safety of all children.

1. Doors open and students can arrive at school as early as 7:30 am daily. Please enter through doors 1 and 5 this year. See Map.

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 will be a trained crossing guard at the corner 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 2024-25

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 Team in the fall! Check out the sports listed below. This is a great way to have fun and get connected to the community at GRCMS right away. Contact Athletic Director, Kevin Broene, if you want to join a fall sport.. Most families have already signed up so please contact him if you haven’t yet.

3. 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.

4. Parent Zoom 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 MS 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 Kirk Sundberg, 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 12, 2024. 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 14.  

If you would like more information about how to get involved in GRCMS PTO, please contact Angelica Rodriguez at grcmspto@grcs.org. 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 2024-25 school year is “Be still and know.” Our chaplain, Mr. VanderWerf writes:

Our theme for the upcoming school is "Be still and know" and comes from Psalm 46. When we read Psalm 46 in its entirety, we are struck by a world that seems chaotic: mountains are quaking, waters are roaring and foaming, nations are in uproar. And yet in the midst of all of this, God speaks: "Be still and know that I am God." We are told to "be still" not by mustering up our own willpower to relax in the midst of the storm, but by knowing that "God is our refuge and strength" and that he, the Lord Almighty, "is with us and is our fortress."  As we explore this theme throughout the year, we are excited to find ways to practice stillness as a Christian community and to be reminded of God's presence with us. 

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.

• Libby Nelesen joins our math department after teaching for one year in the Minneapolis area and for three years at Unity Christian in Hudsonville. Mrs. Nelesen is an avid swimmer and is excited to join our community.

• Kelly Ruha graduated from Calvin University this spring and will join the English department this fall. Ms. Ruha has played lacrosse and been a faith formation leader at Calvin.

• Andrew Silagi also joins our English department after graduating from Hope College in the spring. Mr. Silagi works summers as a lead counselor at a camp in Geneva, Wisconsin. 

• Kristen Shoup returns to co-teach orchestra at GRCS, where she worked some years ago. Since teaching at Sylvan and Oakdale Christian, she’s worked at West Side Christian, Calvin Christian, the Grand Rapids Youth Symphony and the Grand Rapids Symphony. 

• Jacob Sudduth comes to GRCS as band co-teacher after working in the Williamsburg and Dryden school districts. In addition to teaching band at both GRCHS and GRCMS, Mr. Sudduth will also teach band and choir at GRCMS.

• Rachelle Rosario joins our team as the new school social worker. In addition to ten years of experience as a school social worker at Sparta, Mrs. Rosario has a variety of other experiences in the field. She’s been a clinical social worker in West Michigan as well as an adjunct professor at Kuyper College.

• Carrie Doezema has moved into the GRCS registrar position after many years as the executive assistant at our Evergreen campus. Although this is a district registrar position, she has an office at the high school. Mrs. Doezema has an incoming junior at GRCHS and has two older children who recently graduated from GRCHS.

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. It may be helpful to pay close attention to the dress code section of the handbook as you shop for back-to-school clothing.

We know that there are countless details for your family to manage as we start the new year. 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 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. Please reference this high school events calendar for important dates. 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 12 - 19, and all parents at back-to-school night on August 27 (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, 

The GRCHS daily schedule not only allows for flexibility, but also reflects educational research on best practices for student learning. Please note the following details about our schedule: 

• We refer to days where periods 1-4 meet as “A days” and days where periods 5-8 meet as “B days.” The calendar of “A days” and “B days” can be found here for planning purposes. 

• Each Monday, Wednesday, and Friday will have a “late start” at 8:35. Monday and Wednesday mornings are set aside for teacher collaboration. On Fridays, teachers will have office hours for students from 7:55 - 8:30. Note that the building is available for students to arrive early if late arrival is difficult.  

• We will have one lunch daily, where all students can eat together in the All City Gym and other designated areas.

• Chapel will meet every Tuesday in the Center for Arts and Worship. We will also have a short “community time” where we meet for praise and worship, a school-wide celebration, or in small groups. 

• Our first day, Tuesday August 20, will have a slightly different schedule to accommodate a pep rally in the Quest Center gym. You can find the first week’s schedule here.

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 2024-2025 school year the following: 

1. One 13.3” MacBook Air laptop with one Apple laptop power adapter and USB-C cable.
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

On 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 through GRCS due to warranty requirements to use  Apple-certified products. A broken laptop submitted at the close of the school year will still be assessed a bill for repair costs if applicable. Technology staff review incidents where accident, neglect, or abuse is the cause, and any additional costs that may need to be assessed. Damage is photographed for record-keeping purposes. Families are billed and payment is expected within 30-days if there is an additional cost. If payment is not received or if students have multiple incidents in a school year, access to the school device may be restricted. Students who incur more than two repairs in a year period will be responsible for the full repair/replacement cost.

 Additional costs include, but are not limited to: 

1. Loss of power supply parts: 
   • Power adapter - $19
   • 1 meter cable - $19
   • 2 meter cable - $29
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 an app, ParentVUE provides access to student schedules, assignments, grades, report cards, course history, attendance, and more. An activation code is required from the admissions office.
2. GRCS App: The GRCS app provides access to information from our website, calendar, and news feeds.
3. GRCS Parent Portal: This portal allows parents to set up an account using the email address/User ID on their ParentVUE account to access online directories, pay for hot lunch, and more.

Instructions for 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, Executive 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 2024-25 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 at orientation.
   • 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 accessible 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

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.

Though they are not a requirement, senior pictures are a special way to celebrate and recognize the Class of 2025 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. Some students have submitted photos taken on an iPhone or a device with similar quality.
5. Digital images may be submitted via email to mkarsten@grcs.org.
6. Photos must be in color, eyes and 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 1, 2024.
• Senior recognition ads can be purchased on Jostens, the due date is typically in December

Please pay attention to your emails about purchasing your 2024-2025 yearbook and senior recognition advertisement from Jostens.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Megan Karsten
mkarsten@grcs.org

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

Classes begin August 20. All students will have their complete class schedule accessible on StudentVUE and ParentVUE the evening of Sunday, August 11. 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 2024/25 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 12-16 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 16.

Parents, plan on visiting us during our Back to School Night on Tuesday, August 27. 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. 

Most students come with pens, pencils, a calculator, three-ring binders, and notebook paper on the first day. Some students prefer one A-day binder and one B-day binder and others prefer a binder for each class. A laptop and most other class-specific supplies are provided by the high school.