Julie DeKoster

Julie DeKoster
Assistant Principal
Phone Extension: 
105
Professional Biography: 

After graduating from Calvin College with my degree in Elementary Education in 1977 I found myself working full time for the bank that had employed me during my college years. I worked for the bank in a variety of capacities over the next 12 years. I then returned to Calvin to update my certificate and began substitute teaching at Ada Christian. In 1989 I was appointed to my first full time teaching position in 4th grade at Ada Christian. After three years I moved to 2nd grade and was there for 18 years. My leadership role within the staff began to grow about 15 years ago and for seven years I took on the job of Elementary Coordinator along with my teaching of second grade.In 2008 I received my master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Calvin College. For two years I filled the role of part time teacher and part time Interim Assistant Principal. As much as I miss the classroom, I am happy in my new full time position as Assistant Principal. It is a joy to serve in support of an amazing staff dedicated to the mission of Ada Christian School.

Personal Biography: 

I grew up in the Grand Rapids area, attended and graduated from the Grand Rapids Christian Schools. I was an active member of LaGrave Ave CRC in my youth and when I married Mark in 1976 I joined his home church, Calvin CRC, where we continue to be active members. We have been blessed with three wonderful daughters (All graduates of Ada Christian School), two of whom have married equally wonderful men. We enjoy spending time with family and friends and traveling whenever time permits. When free time presents itself; a good book, a bike ride or a round of golf will often fill the time.

Faith Statement: 

My faith in Jesus Christ as my personal Lord and Savior defines who I am. It is impossible to separate that faith from my teaching. Each of the children entrusted to me is a precious image bearer of God. They have their own unique gifts. This firm belief guides the very way that I work with students each day. I treat them with respect as I encourage them to use those gifts to grow and learn. It is my privilege to share with them the wonders of God’s world and to help them develop a love for learning. God’s hand can be seen in every lesson learned. We see it in the pattern and order in the world that can help us with our math. In the gift of words that can help us express our thoughts and ideas. I enjoy helping children see that they are being servants in God’s kingdom when they do their best at school and at play. We begin each day with this question: And what does the Lord require of you? Our response comes from Micah 6:8 – “To act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with our God.”