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2022-2023

Welcome to the 2022-2023 school year! 

A Note From Principal Sall

Welcome to the 2022-2023 school year.  We are honored to be partnering with you in Christian education as we work together to equip students for service in God’s world. 

Last school year our theme was  “Standing on the Promises of God.” Various faculty/staff members, as well as parents and students, shared personal stories where they saw God’s promises remain true and steadfast in their lives.

This year, we will be focusing on the theme - “Clothed in Christ” based on Colossians 3:12-14. Throughout the school year, we will focus on multiple questions and aspects of this theme:

What are you wearing?

  • Check your closet
  • Clothe yourself - check your heart - does it fit?
  • Wear it well - Ambassadors for Christ
    • Compassion
    • Kindness
    • Humility
    • Gentleness
    • Patience

Thank you for the joy of partnering with you in educating the whole child - mind, body, and soul in Christian community! 

Clothed in Christ,

Principal Sall

Clothed in Christ

Theme Verse

Colossians 3:12-14

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 

And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Mark your Calendar

Mon, Aug 22: Open House
Wed, Aug 24: 4th-8th grade School Pictures
Thurs, Aug 25: Kindergarten - 3rd grade School Pictures
Tues, Aug 30, 6:30pm-8:00pm: All School Parent Orientation
Thurs, Sept 08, 5:30-7:30pm: Back to School Party

K-8 Open House

Monday, Aug 22

Teachers are looking forward to seeing your family on Monday, Aug 22 at your scheduled time. Students are invited to bring their school supplies and to put them in their lockers.

Time Last Name
1:00-1:40pm A-G
1:45-2:25pm H-P
2:30-3:10pm Q-Z

First Day of School Details

Tuesday, Aug 23

Tuesday morning, Aug 23, will be a great time for teachers and their students to begin building community and establishing classroom routines that will set a strong foundation for a wonderful year of growing and learning together. Doors will open at 7:40am for students and parents. 

We plan to begin classes promptly at 8:00am Students will be dismissed at 11:30am

NOTE: There will be no AM or PM bus transportation for our first day.

2022-2023 School Year Dedication

On August 23 at 10:45 am, parents are invited to join us in the South Gym  for celebration and thankfulness to God for a new year of school together. At the end of our chapel, students will return to their classes to pack up for the day. We ask that parents pick up students around the front of the building in the parking lot or car loops at 11:30am 

Daily Drop-Off & Pick-Up Procedures

The safety of our students and their families is a top priority.  Please review these important daily procedures. 

Morning Drop-Off (7:40am-7:55am)

  • School doors will be opened at 7:40am
  • The bus loop and car loop will be open for parents to quickly drop off students. If more time is needed to gather items and say good-bye, please use the parking lot.
  • When using the drop-off loops, students must exit on the right side of the car.
  • No parking is allowed in the drop-off loops.
  • See the image below for which entrance your child should use. 

Afternoon Pick-Up (3:00pm-3:10pm)

  • The car loop is for the pick up of preschool and kindergarten students only.
  • The driver must remain with the vehicle at all times and may not park in the loop.
  • The bus loop may be used for quick student pick up. The driver must remain with the vehicle at all times and may not park in the loop. It is important cars do not block the Fox Hollow entrance.
  • From 2:30-2:50pm the bus loop is for preschool pick-up only, please do not park in the bus loop at that time.
  • When parking, please back your car into a spot. It is too easy to miss seeing a child when backing out of a spot.
  • It is important that your child(ren) are picked up by 3:10pm.
  • All students not picked up by 3:10 p.m. will be asked to wait at the front entrance under the covered awning.
  • Please enforce our rule that students may not play on the playground without parent/adult supervision.
  • Remind students to keep their feet on the ground; no climbing on trees, flagpoles, light poles, snow piles, etc…
  • We ask that students do not walk through our landscaping where plants are trying to grow.
  • School employees helping to monitor the parking lot after school will be wearing orange vests. If you have questions, please ask one of them and remind students that the orange vested adults are friends who can help them if they need it.

Mid-day Student Check In and Check Out 

Please use the call button to the left of our main entrance doors to call the office or call from a cell phone to get assistance with checking students in or out during the day. 

Mid-day Item Drop-Offs

There will be a table near the front doors where parents can drop needed items off for students (i.e. - instruments, athletic equipment, computer, lunches) If you are dropping something off, please be sure your child’s name is on the item. Simply call the office using your phone or the call button to let us know that you are making a delivery.

Note for New Students

Birth Certificate: 

Any student new to Ada Christian School, Kindergarten – 8th  (2021-2022 school year) must bring to the office a copy of his/her birth certificate. This is required by law in the state of Michigan. You may email a copy to Kimmie Brander () If you need a copy made please stop into the office and we will be happy to help. 

Immunization Forms:

Immunization forms are due by Aug 23. By state law the school must have this form on file for your child by the start of school. If you have any questions please call Kimmie Brander in the office at 616-676-1289

Supply List and Calendar

K-8 Supply List       2022-2023 Calendar

Who’s New?

Kimmy Bloemers
Inclusion Aide

 Tammy Butch
3rd Grade Teacher		 Emma de Jong
3rd Grade Teacher

April Hoeksema
Student Support Services

 Hannah Merrill
Outdoor Education		 Katelyn Persenaire
Covenant Care Director

Betsy Rybarcyzk
56er Social Studies

 Alexis Schenck 
3rd Grade Teacher

Parent Orientation

Please join us Tuesday, August 30 for our K-8 Parent Orientation. During this evening, teachers will share important information with parents about the upcoming school year. Please do your best to be in attendance. 

Please arrive a few minutes early so you can fill out a name tag and get to your destinations on time for a prompt start since our time is limited.

Time Who Where
6:30-6:45pm Session I: Grades K-4 Student Homerooms
6:45-6:50pm Passing Time
6:50-7:05pm Session II: Grades K-4 (repeat of Session I) Student Homerooms
6:50-7:05pm 5-8 Athletics (AD, Casey Meyaard will share) Band Room
7:05-7:10pm Passing Time
7:10-7:45pm Grade 5 Media Center
7:10-7:45pm Grade 6 Band Room
7:10-7:45pm Grades 7 & 8 Commons

Back to School Party

Thursday, September 8, 5:30pm-7:30pm at the ACS Track & Field. Sponsored by our ACS Promotions Committee, this event is sure to please with bounce houses, obstacle courses and other fun activities. Food will be available for purchase from one of the many food trucks on site. No tickets to the event are needed.  

Athletics

PurePlay (Y5’s - 4th grade) 

This fall we plan to offer our soccer program for Y5-4th graders.  The games take place Saturday mornings beginning Sept 10, at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.  For 1st-4th graders, there will be one practice during the week.  Y5/K is only one hour on Saturdays. Registration ends Aug 26.

Wildcats (56’ers & 78’ers)

ACS offers boys soccer, girls volleyball, and boys/girls cross-country for all 5-8 students during the fall. Fall sport seasons are scheduled to start the week of Aug 22 (some starting Aug 15) for students in grades 5-8.

All 5-8 athletes must complete an MHSAA physical/concussion form prior to the first day of practice. These forms and other important information can be found at the ACS Athletic Webpage.

School Lunch Program

School lunch will be available daily beginning Wed, Aug 24. 

There will be two options each day and a fresh fruit and salad bar. Students place their orders each morning for that day and deductions are made from their lunch account. Before your student can order lunch, an account must be created on Send Money To School.  Visit adachristian.org/hotlunch for details or to apply for lunch assistance. 

Times to Remember

Student Arrival   7:40am-7:55am
Instructional Hours 8:00am-3:00pm
Student Pick-Up 3:00pm-3:10pm
Office Hours 7:30am-3:30pm

Tardy Talk: Please help our days get off to a smooth start by having your child arrive no later than 7:55 a.m. Tardies cause disruptions to important morning routines for individual students and classrooms as a whole. A student entering class after 8:00am is tardy. Parents will be notified by letter when their child reaches 5 tardies in one trimester and for every 5 tardies following. 

Absences: We learn in community so when a student misses class, it impacts the learning of the individual student and also the learning of others. Sharing in class discussions, collaborating in group settings, and participating in activities cannot be duplicated outside of class or replaced by individual study.

We understand that students may have to miss school due to illness, appointments, and family emergencies. Some absences may be unavoidable; however, please help limit the number of days our students miss school. When possible, please provide a doctor’s note for absences.

Dress Code

The basics are listed below and more detailed information is available in our policies and procedures.

  • Shorts/Skirts that reach to the bottom of the student’s middle finger when arms are relaxed at the side are permitted.
  • Leggings, jeggings, and yoga pants are not to be worn as pants. If worn, they are to be covered with skirts/tops and must cover “bottoms”.
  • Tank tops must have minimum 2” straps.
  • Clothing must cover underclothes and the mid-section of the body.
  • Flip-Flops, for safety reasons, are not allowed for students kindergarten through 4th grade.
  • Hats are not to be worn in class.

Students will be asked to change their clothes if their attire does not meet our dress code. Thank you in advance for your support.

What Does it Mean to be an Inclusive School?

Being an inclusive school means that our students with special needs are welcomed in our school, participating in regular classes with support to learn, contribute, and participate in all aspects of life at our school.

All children benefit from inclusive education. It allows all students to:

  • Develop individual strengths and gifts, with high and appropriate expectations for each child.
  • Foster a school culture of respect and belonging.
  • Enjoy opportunities to learn about and accept individual differences, lessening the impact of harassment and bullying.
  • Develop friendships with a wide variety of other children, each with their own individual needs and abilities.
  • Better understand and appreciate diversity and inclusion on a broader level.

Parent Class Coffees

Moms and dads - join us and meet fellow parents of your child’s classmates! It only takes an hour, and it is a great way to connect with other parents. Led by our Promotions Committee, we will meet from 8:00am-9:00am in the outdoor “WoodshED” for coffee, refreshments, devotions, and time to chat. 

Parent Class Coffee dates to pencil in:

Sept 19  Kindergarten (all sections)
Sept 20  First and Second Grades
Sept 21  Third and Fourth Grades

Ada Christian School Education Foundation proudly presents:

Night at the Museum
November 10, 2022
Grand Rapids Public Museum

Mark your calendars for a Night at the Museum on November 10, 2022. Come enjoy a magnificent evening at the Grand Rapids Public Museum as we gather together to celebrate Ada Christian School. Our annual fall gathering is the signature fundraising event for the Ada Christian School Education Foundation, which provides essential support to our school. 

           -FORMAL INVITATION TO FOLLOW-

Student Information Forms

Several student information forms (K-8) are ready for you to complete online (emergency contacts, student health, school policy agreement, etc). These forms must be completed by Friday, Aug 19. 

To complete the forms:

  • Log into your PowerSchool parent portal (powerschool.adachristian.org).
  • Select Forms
  • Complete all forms under the category Student Information Forms.
  • Please note that some forms need to be filled out for each child while others may be submitted for the whole family.

Fun with Elementary (K-4) Recess

Beginning on Aug 24, volunteers for recess will be needed. At lunch recess (12:05pm-12:30pm & 12:30pm-1:00pm) four people are needed daily. On Fridays we also need four people for morning recess (9:55am-10:15am). 

Younger siblings may join parents for this volunteer opportunity. Sign up for K, 3rd & 4th grade recess or 1st & 2nd grade recess. Digital signups will be released in the Ada Connection later this month.

If you have any questions about volunteering for elementary recess, please email Sharon DeKleine.

PTO

We are grateful to our PTO and all the work they do to support the teachers and students at ACS. Take a moment to learn more about our PTO and how they support our teachers.

Transportation News

We rely on Forest Hills buses for those living in the district. For families who registered for transportation with Forest Hills, information will be sent to your homes.  If you have not contacted them, please call Forest Hills transportation department at 616-493-8785 as soon as possible.

If your family indicated during enrollment that you planned to ride the bus, this email was sent to you.  Please call the school office if you were planning on using our buses and you did not receive the email.

ACS Transportation Questions?

Please direct ACS Transportation questions to our Transportation Supervisor, ,

ACS Hub Stops

Ada Connection – June 28, 2022 June 28th, 2022

Ada Connection

A Note From The Principal

Summer Happenings

As soon as school let out, we had some people go to work on the old computer lab in order to transform it into a classroom for our Student Support Services and GROW program.

June 30, 2022, will mark one year that I (“Mr. Tall Sall”) have been blessed to be one of the leaders at ACS. I count it a privilege to work with all the office personnel as an Administrative Team!

I am blessed to be surrounded by a Board, Faculty, and Staff that loves Jesus and embodies the values and mission of Ada Christian School.

I am encouraged by community members to lead as an image-bearer of Christ, to show our students that Jesus is our Savior and Lord.

I look forward to swinging some more sledge hammers, planning for faculty/staff professional development, holding more tours for prospective families, and investing some time with my family yet this summer.

May you be blessed as you share the love of Christ with whatever adventures you may get to experience before a new school year begins.

Now You Know

New Staff

Betsy Rybarczyk, 56 Social Studies

I love studying and learning about history.  My love for the subject began when I was just a little girl and has  snowballed into more than just a passion but a career. I attended Cornerstone University and received a Bachelor’s in history, philosophy, and English. With a focus on Christian apologetics, I participated in additional studies at Oak Hill Theological Seminary in London, England and completed a Master’s of Education and History at Grand Valley State University.

For as long as I can remember, I have been curious about all of the people and places that I have studied. In addition, I have had a heart for spreading God’s Truth and Love through international missions. These passions have catapulted me into a life long excitement for exploring and ministering to God’s amazing world. I have been blessed to live, minister, and work in both Prague, Czech Republic and Penang, Malaysia.  

For the past 22 years, it has been my joy to be able to teach my students about history and then travel with them to experience these amazing places. I have brought my students to awe inspiring destinations such as Rome, Sydney, and the Galapagos Islands to the incredibly humbling and historic monuments such as the gas chambers of Auschwitz and the beaches of Normandy. In all, I have been given the incredible opportunity to have traveled to 48 countries spanning 6 continents.  

Fortunately, I have an amazing family who also loves to travel. My husband, Craig, and I have had 22 adventure filled years of marriage. We have two beautiful children, Graham (7th grade) and Maddie (2nd grade), who attend ACS. Together, as a family, we have been able to explore many countries and create lifelong memories.

It is through my real life experiences that I am able to make my history classes come to life. It is my hope that each one of my students will become inspired to not only learn, love, and explore history and God's world, but to apply God’s Truth to what they learn and to deepen their faith and walk with their Savior. I am so excited to be a part of the ACS family, and I cannot wait for this next great adventure to begin!

Hannah Merrill, Farm Manager

My name is Hannah Merrill and I am excited to be the Farm Manager here as of the 2022-2023 school year. My husband Jeff and I have been married for 5 years this October, we have a one year old daughter named Lilly Ann and a 6 year old cat named Golgi. I was an Environmental Educator for the majority of my teaching career but the last 5 have been spent teaching people with severe Autism and Cognitive Impairments at Pine Grove Learning Center (sister school to Lincoln and LDC). Jeff and I met 6 years ago at Keystone Community Church in Ada. Pre baby, Jeff was a small group leader and part of the Keystone Tech team, I participated on the worship team. Post baby, we do our best to make it through the majority of a service before the nap time break down. In our family time we hike, cook, kayak, have game nights, spend time with our families and friends, and of course enjoy a good nap in a hammock.

I cannot express how excited I am to be a part of the Outdoor education team here at ACS and I am looking forward to spending many hours investing in the staff, students, families, animals, and property that make up ACS.

I look forward to working with you all soon,

Hannah Merrill

Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:12-13

SCRIP Gift Cards

Please note that any physical cards ordered will not be fulfilled throughout the summer. You may however still order SCRIP now or reload existing cards. 

Summer Office Hours

Our summer school office hours will be Tue-Thurs, 9:00am-2:00pm for the months of June, July, and August. The office will be closed for the week of July 4th. 

Supply List & School Calendar

Are you already eager to come back to school this fall? Get a head start on planning:

Hot Lunch Changes

Starting next school year we will once again be charging for school lunches. Instructions on how to set up accounts as well as the price of lunches will come in your Back-to-School letter in August. For those needing help with the cost you may apply for Free and Reduced Lunch starting August 1.

We are happy to welcome back the salad bar! In addition to this we will begin to offer two lunch options each day starting in October.

We look forward to continuing to serve your students!

Any questions regarding hot lunch can be directed to Nancy Michaels, ;

Action Needed

Become a Host Family

Isn't it nice to see a friendly, familiar face when you start something new? We have host families to welcome new families to ACS. Would you consider being a host family for the upcoming school year? As a host family you introduce yourself to an assigned family that has a child entering the same grade as yours. We encourage you to welcome them and serve as a resource to them as they get acclimated with life at ACS. If you are interested, please email Mark Stuit ().

ACS Athletics

PurePlay

Sign up for the fall soccer!

Have a great summer! 

Requested Announcements

Sports Physicals

Current 8th graders planning to play sports in high school in the 2022-23 school year need to have a MHSAA physical form on file with the high school athletic office before they are allowed to participate. A valid physical for 2022-23 must be completed any time after April 15, 2022. You may print out a physical form here. This form must be completed with all signatures in order to participate in sports in high school. You may attach your doctor’s office physical form for the doctor portion of this form but the parent portion and all signatures need to be completed on this form. 

Middle School Matters – 06.03.22 June 03rd, 2022

Middle School Matters

General Announcements

Important Dates:

June 01-03 – 8th Grade Class Trip
June 02-03 – 7th Grade Class Trip
June 07 – 8th grade Graduation 
June 08 – Last ½ day 

5th Grade

Auction: Our 5th grade auction will be on Wed., June 8. We are looking for donations - these can be used items from around the house that you no longer want or need (sports balls, Nerf hoops, purses, stuffed animals, etc). If you wish to donate items to our auction, please send your child with the items to give to his/her homeroom teacher. 

Gospel Theatre: Gospel Theatre is taking place June 7 at 1pm followed by a brief end of year celebration.

Bible: This week we wrapped up The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by talking about Aslan’s sacrifice and how it parallels Jesus’ sacrifice. We also prepared for Gospel Theatre.

Language Arts: This week we wrapped up our unit on The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe and we took a spelling test with summer-themed words! Next week we only have one more class together for one last Narnia celebration! Please remind your child to return any borrowed books from Miss Zeller’s classroom library.

Math: We have been completing one final year-end review. The students were given a packet with problems from each chapter we covered throughout the year. This packet is due at the end of class on Monday. Have a great summer! 

Music - Band: Our last day we play is Monday - can you send a treat for the band to share on Monday? That would be awesome!!! What a great year. ACS music can stay with your student for the summer. Want more music? Let Mrs. VN know - - I have lots of options. Many of our 5th graders could easily join Knollcrest Music Camp - lmk if you would like to pursue this great day-camp music experience.

Music - Choir: We are leading the End of Year Chapel on Wednesday morning at 8:20ish. 

Music - Orchestra: Make sure you bring your music to school to be filed for the summer! You will bring your instrument home on today and will not need it for the rest of the year. Parents/ students make sure that you get all the sizing upgrades, repairs needed before school starts again in the fall. Try to practice your instrument this summer!

Social Studies: This week we have been finishing up talking about the Constitutional Convention and discussed the creation of the Constitution and Bill of Rights. 

6th Grade

Thank You Chaperones: Thank you so much for chaperoning us on our rafting trip last week! It was not a warm day - but we were able to enjoy the rainless weather, hooray! At least 97 turtles were viewed, many herons were spotted, and lots of fish as well. Howard had his own raft…it was a great day for him too!

Auction: Do you have anything you could donate to the 6th grade Auction?  Peace Tea or cans of pop? A candy bar or two? Or 20? :) Any sort of new or used cool thing would be most welcome - we need any donations by Wednesday June 8 in the morning.

Bible: This week we reflected on all that we learned throughout the year by completing a faith reflection presentation.

Language Arts: This week we took our spelling test and finished reading The Wednesday Wars. We had many great discussions about the funny and serious moments of the story. Next week we will take some time wrapping up the unit before kicking off summer vacation! Make sure to remind your student to return his/her copy of The Wednesday Wars and any other books from Miss Zeller’s classroom library.

Math: We have been completing one final year-end review. The students were given a packet with problems from each chapter we covered throughout the year. This packet is due at the end of class on Monday. Have a great summer! 

Music - Band: Our last day we play is Monday - can you send a treat for the band to share on Monday? That would be awesome!!! What a great year. ACS music can stay with your student for the summer. Want more music? Let Mrs. VN know - - I have lots of options. Knollcrest Music Camp - this is a great day-camp music experience. Mrs. VN will be working there this summer - it’s a wonderful camp to attend for band and choir both!

Music - Choir: We are leading the End of Year Chapel on Wednesday morning at 8:20ish.

Music - Orchestra: Make sure you bring your music to school to be filed for the summer! You will bring your instrument home on Monday, June 6. Parents/ students make sure that you get all the sizing upgrades, repairs needed before school starts again in the fall. Try to practice your instrument this summer!

Social Studies: This week students created their own Kahoot or Blooket trivia games based on information they learned about the Middle Ages. They will have an opportunity to test their knowledge and play each other’s trivia games on Monday!

7th Grade

Bible: 7th Bible students are finishing up their projects for the Paradise Final, please help remind them to share their projects with me asap. We will be presenting the projects to each other to round out the school year!

History: We’re all finished with our first year of US history. We’ll take a look at some map studies for our last couple of days together. 

Math - Algebra: Students will wrap up the year by designing a small town and completing other activities.

Math - Pre-Algebra: Pre-Algebra students are finishing up their volume and surface area castles to finish the year off! I am so proud of all the work they have put into this class!

Music - Band: Our last day we play is Monday - can you send a treat for the band to share on Monday? That would be awesome!!! What a great year. ACS music can stay with your student for the summer. Want more music? Let Mrs. VN know - - I have lots of options. Knollcrest Music Camp - this is a great day-camp music experience. Mrs. VN will be working there this summer - it’s a wonderful camp to attend for band and choir both!

Music - Choir: We rounded out the year with singing! Have a wonderful summer! 

Music - Orchestra: Make sure you bring your music to school to be filed for the summer! You will bring your instrument home on Monday, June 6. Parents/ students make sure that you get all the sizing upgrades, repairs needed before school starts again in the fall. Try to practice your instrument this summer!

Athletics

As all spring sports begin to wrap up this week, please be sure to turn in your son/daughters jersey into the office or Mr. Meyaard. Thank you for a fun spring season. 

Registration for all ACS 5-8 Fall Sports is now open. 

ACS 5-8 Fall Athletic Opportunities:

5/6 and 7/8 Boys Soccer: Team Fee $50

5-8 Girls Volleyball: Team Fee $50

5-8 Boys/Girls Cross Country: Team Fee $35

Athletic Opportunities with GRCMS

Grand Rapids Christian allows any 5-8 ACS student to participate in the following fall sports. Click on the link for sign-ups and more information for each: 

Golf (sign-ups close June 3)

Football (sign-ups close July 29)

ACS Athletics Summer Camps:

Basketball Camp (June 27-30):  Click here for more information and to sign-up.

Volleyball Camp (July 25-28): Click here for more information and to sign-up.

Whatcha Doin' Out There!? - March & April 2022 May 03rd, 2022

OE News

Spring has been busy in the OE world and we have a double dose of Whatcha Doin’ with some highlights from March and April.  March’s main focus was the sugar shack.  We tapped almost 70 trees and made 11 gallons of ACS syrup!  A special thanks to all those who helped make that possible.  March is a cold messy month, but the sweetness of the maple and the steam billowing from the sugar shack are always hopeful signs of spring.  As we continued into April, new signs of life began to emerge.  Among the new life was the always exciting arrival of baby goats! We currently have 15 baby goats (beating last year’s record of 13!) residing in the barn at ACS. Students enjoyed visits to watch them cuddle in the straw or trying out their moves as they leap in the air.  

Preschool 

Preschool made visits to the sugar shack as well as trips to the barn to see the new baby goats. They also tried on our new rain suits that help them enjoy the outdoors in all types of weather!

Kindergarten

Kindergarteners enjoyed some time in the hoop house planting their own plants for a small salad garden that they look forward to harvesting soon. They also explored the science of materials and motion. They made small structures in the woods using materials they could find like sticks, leaves, vines and snow and utilized the different properties of the materials. To explore motion they experimented with a variety of balls down the hill and over ramps.   

1st grade

In the fall, first grade harvested herbs to make tea.  This spring they spent time planting some new herbs (like lemongrass) so that next year's first graders may have the same opportunity. Another focus for first grade was wind. We explored wind by making and flying kites.  Bulbs are another first grade focus. In addition to potting and growing tulips in OE, we spent time looking for other bulbs like daffodils, allium and even some wild onions they were able to taste!

2nd grade

In second grade we spent time exploring with maps.  Students had the challenge of trying to make a map that someone else would read.  This proved to be a challenging task.  The next time they read maps to find clues to solve a puzzle.  We also moved into a rocks and minerals unit in which they collected rocks to be polished, looked at sediments under a microscope, and even learned to pan for gold.  It was fun even though we didn’t find any. 

3rd grade

In third grade, we’ve been getting our hands dirty with multiple flower projects! We seeded violas for earth day and Grand Friends day; we planted calibrachoa seedlings in hanging baskets for our Mothers Day Sale this week and cared for them by deadheading, adding fertile soil, and creating plant tags with growing information! We also planted freesia bulbs to add to our bouquet garden and other annual flowers like zinnias and cosmos, also for our bouquet garden. 

4th grade

A primary focus for 4th grade was continuing to look at trees and consider the topic of forestry. We learned about how to use pi to approximate a tree's age. We also learned how to approximate a tree’s height without having to climb to the top with a tape measure. Another focus was moving into the topic of erosion and looking at signs of erosion around our property as well as considering the human impact on erosion at school, both positive and negative. In addition to this 4th grade has been a great work force in planting and seeding a number of times already this spring. They do great work while learning the ins and outs of garden work. 

5th grade

In March, fifth grade students prepared for baby goats by measuring out mamas growing bellies and learning about labor and delivery of baby goats. We learned what a normal delivery looks like and all the possible positions of baby goats in utero. After break, some students got to catch the birth of Happy’s triplets or the freshly delivered kids (and placenta…) and learned all about goat kids.  They’ve been enjoying bottle feeding our baby goat orphans during lunch recess and frolicking with the fifteen kids in the barnyard. We took a photograph of each 5th grade student with a baby goat for the front of the goat books they’ve been adding to all year.

6th grade

Sixth graders have been perfecting their chicken careers over the course of the year and are excited to be entering their final work weeks! Our last chicken assignment has been working as chicken teams to create a marketing piece–an educational brochure to include in the final Egg Club shares. Group work is a challenging feat and their year of working as a team is being put to the test with this final project!

7th grade

March was a big month for 7th grade because of the sap collection. They had the task of collecting the sap and bringing it to the sugar shack.  Different groups did this each day. They also learned the process of sap to syrup in OE. As a reward they enjoyed some fresh pancakes with the finest ACS maple syrup. Our new focus is on ecosystems as we tie in with science class. Each student will be researching a specific organism.  Then in LA they will write a narrative using the voice of their organism.  In Art they will create a sign that will be placed in the ecosystem. Each sign will have a QR code that will play the story of the organisms. 

8th grade

The big focus for so long has been on the legacy project.  After presenting to staff, the list was narrowed down by administration to some of the best options.  The final choice was to create a large outdoor eating area that will be able to hold an entire grade.  This will be great for eating outside as well as another outdoor classroom option.  Construction will begin on the project soon.  In the meantime we are tending to our fast plants to learn about inheritance and genes. We also looked at structures and functions by studying skulls of a variety of animals. 

The Link: December 2018 December 15th, 2018

Strong Bonds: Changed by Service
Strong Beginnings: The Simplicity of a Sandbox
Strong Living: Uncovering a Story
Strong Growing: A Pleasant New Sound
Strong Future: ACS Annual Fund: Making the Difference
Strong Leading: Student Conferencing
Strong Journey: An Excerpt from a 2018 Distinguished Service Award Recipient

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Strong Bonds: Changed by Service

Service project -Heartside -signHeartside Park receives a fresh clean up.
Service project -Heartside -carrotsPounds of peeled carrots create full stomachs and orange hands.
Service Project -Hope NetworkSixth grade students serve at Hope Network.
I believe that the Christian community is called to serve God by serving others. Opportunities to be servants of Christ are all around us each day. Through our service to others we build community, become aware of God’s blessings, and discover how we can help others around us. Exploring this call to service with 6th grade students at ACS is one of the highlights of my year.

Again this year, with the help of 31 adult volunteers, our sixth grade students spent two days being the hands and feet of Christ at 14 organizations around the greater Grand Rapids area. These organizations included God’s Kitchen, In the Image, UCOM, Hope Network, Comprenew, Vista Springs Northview, Seidman Park, Bible for Missions Thrift Store, Grand Rapids Area Parks, The Pantry, Vista Springs Wyoming, Apostolic Christian Church, Soup’s on - Meals on Wheels and Kids Food Basket.

Over the two weeks leading up to the service days our students had class discussions and chapels to begin thinking about how we could serve others in our community and how we could live out 1 Peter 4:10 which states, “each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms”. We thought about what it would be like to be homeless, to not have snacks in the cupboard or not have the means to stop at a fast food restaurant for dinner. Mrs. Koetje shared with students that, “It’s not wrong to be homeless or in need, it’s just hard” and that we are called to help them.

Following the days of service, students spent time in class reflecting on the experience and writing thank you letters to the organizations. Because service is not only about helping others, but also about understanding how those experiences have changed us, we reflected individually and as a group on questions like:

  • What was the most satisfying part of your work? What can you learn from that?
  • What was the most difficult or uncomfortable part of your experience? What can you learn from that?
  • Is it important for ACS 6th Graders to serve? Why or why not?
  • How has this experience changed how you look at the world?
  • What important things do you hope to remember about your experience?

A few reflections from 6th graders:

  • “I learned that it is ok to need help.”
  • “I learned that you don’t need to buy or have things in order to be happy.”
  • “The experience changed how I look at the world because I used to look at the world thinking everyone is the same. Now I know that not everyone is the same, but that everyone deserves to be treated the same.”
  • “I know that God gave everyone a purpose, even if they have special needs.”

As we approach Christmas, 6th graders have an extra sense of awareness of the needs around them. One specific need that surprised many students was that food pantries and organizations helping those in need are almost always very short on toilet paper. Sixth graders will be collecting toilet paper to give to United Church Outreach Ministry (UCOM). Feel free to drop a few rolls off at ACS or directly to your local food pantry.

–Nate Kiser

Strong Beginnings: The Simplicity of a Sandbox

Sandbox -rolling in logsKindergartens find logs to serve as a good foundation.
As our Outdoor Education program continues to expand we asked our Preschool- 1st grade staff to dream about the space outside of their hall. With help from our seventh and eighth graders a sandbox was added to the early elementary

playground this fall. What started as a simple sandbox with a few logs and boards has turned into an avenue for imagination and creativity. Each day, during recess and after school, students head to this play space and start using their imaginations. Logs become the foundation for a house and boards are used as bridges.

SandboxStudents arrange wooden pieces to create forts and bridges.“It’s a great option for kids who may not like soccer or tag. They have a space to be creative while still being outside,” first grade teacher Miss Bonnema shared. “The sensory experience of sand mixed with the gross motor skills of lifting makes the sandbox a total win. It’s been fun to watch them get excited about the littlest things like finding a new board or making a home for toads and bugs.”

Not only are students learning with their hands but they are also growing their minds. “I have seen kids learning to share and work together in groups while building,” said Miss Bonnema. “My first graders are also getting to know kindergarteners by talking while they play and build. Important relationships are being formed with kids of different ages.” It has been a joy to watch as our youngest students learn through play.

Strong Living: Uncovering a Story

Girl uncovers bonesDeer bones are uncovered by fifth grade archaeologist, Tessa Honholt.What do deer bones, clay pots and several Taino Indian artifacts have in common? Fifth graders uncovered all of these during their two-week archaeological dig this Fall. Former ACS teacher and current archaeologist Neil Bierling planted several artifacts in our 20’ X 40’ archaeology site modeled after early Israeli homes.

Working in groups of six, students first lined out the square in which they would work. Next, working slowly, students used small utensils like brushes and dental picks to remove dirt and uncover artifacts. Once an artifact was found students had to plot the item on their chart and use the proper scale. Items could then be carefully cleaned off and placed on the counter in the classroom for observation.

Fifth grade teacher Miss Slauer explained that more than finding artifacts, students are working to “uncover a story.” “Since they spent time beforehand learning about archaeology, the kids were more invested because they knew the why behind it,” said Miss Slauer. Students learned how archaeology could shed light on parts of the Bible that may be confusing. They spent time in class asking, “What questions do we have about the Bible that archeology can help us answer?”

Students also learned empathy for archaeologists when they were working in the intense heat or cold rain. Some commented, “I could never be an archaeologist,” while others embraced the slow methodical process.

Fifth grade student Lily O’Grady used the word “unexpected” to best describe her experience during the dig. “It was really fun to uncover things and to see everything we collected,” she commented. “I was surprised how much I loved doing the charting and scales, too.” From planning and digging, to charting and putting together a story, students were able to experience the full archaeological process.

Strong Growing: A Pleasant New Sound

UkuleleJames VandenBosch proudly strums notes on his ukulele.
Somewhere over the rainbow, in the elementary music room at Ada Christian School, the sound of strumming ukuleles can be heard.

Last year, when we received a donation to our music program, our music teacher, Mrs. Vruwink, knew right away what she wanted to add: ukuleles. Now, beginning in the second trimester of school, third grade students are introduced to this small stringed instrument. As the year progresses students learn different notes and strum patterns building up to full songs and a performance at Grand Friend’s Day.

Students light up any time you mention ukuleles, eager to share a song they have learned or what they named their instrument. Our third graders were very proud to be chosen as the grade to have this added to their curriculum.

I thought it was cool to be the first students to play the ukuleles. It was really special to perform on Grand Friend’s Day.

Why ukuleles and why third grade?

Mrs. Vruwink explains, “Ukuleles give students a unique introduction to string instruments aswell as develop their ability to read music. Strumming and picking is a perfect way for students to continue to exercise their fine motor skills. In third grade, students continue to develop independence and the ukuleles serve as another avenue for problem solving.” Her favorite part of the program has been watching student’s faces beam with pride when they finally play a song all the way through successfully switching chords.

“I’m grateful to have the chance to have a ukulele program and for all of the excitement and support around it,” Mrs. Vruwink shared.

Strong Future: ACS Annual Fund: Making The Difference

Link 2018 -Annual Fund breakdown -pie chartEvery year Ada Christian School depends on the philanthropic community to help cover a portion of expenses that are not covered by tuition revenue.The ACS Annual Fund, Ada Christian’s annual giving program, is the school’s top fundraising priority. When you give a gift to The ACS Annual Fund, you make an immediate impact to the students, faculty, and vibrant educational programs that distinguish our school. Please consider a gift to this year’s annual fund. Your gift signals your confidence in our mission of equipping students for service in God’s world by integrating academic excellence with a distinctly Christian perspective.

Your Participation In Our Annual Fund Helps Us:

  • Deliver a leading academic education tailored to students’ unique needs and learning styles
  • Supply the resources and support needed to ensure students are equipped to make healthy choices for their own physical and emotional well-being
  • Nurture students’ personal relationship with Christ and provide opportunities for them to express and share their faith
  • Lead students to a comprehensive understanding of their communities and engage them as agents of change for the Lord
  • Provide needed tuition assistance for families who desire an ACS education

Strong Leading: Student Conferencing

Student-Teacher ConferencingMrs. Quist conferences with seventh grade student Lindsey Schrock
It is one thing to say that Ada Christian School nurtures students -- mind, body, and soul in Christian community, but it means much more to see it lived out in so many ways. As I made a loop through the school recently, I simply had to pause in the middle school hallway as I thought, “This is amazing!” and my heart whispered, “Thank you, Lord.”

Each conference ends with prayer and a positive sense that teachers and students know one another a bit better and that, together, we have a faith strong ACS family committed to nurturing the whole child.

Teachers and students were meeting one-on-one for teacher- student conferences. Each year we bring in substitute teachers so our seventh and eighth grade teachers can meet with their homeroom students to talk about how each young man and woman are doing.

Each student prepares for the meeting by considering where they are currently and setting goals for where they want to be:

  • (Mind) What subjects am I enjoying the most and the least? What kind of grade would I give myself for effort?
  • (Body) Am I getting enough sleep and exercise? Am I building healthy habits?
  • (Soul) What goal do I have for spiritual growth and how could I achieve it?
  • (Community) If I graded our middle school community, what would I give us and why? How have I grown because of my work with others this year? If I have a problem, who do I feel comfortable sharing with?

– Principal Brower

Strong Journey: An Excerpt from 2018 Distinguished Service Award Recipient

Relationship and friendships begin at ACS and they last. When I think about ACS, and the work of the Education Foundation, I think about how blessed we are to have this caring and collaborative Christian community. Over the years, we have seen first hand how the teachers, administrative staff and parents collaborate to nurture each and every student through a Christian perspective.

One can’t help but marvel at the projects and opportunities given to our children to grow in their faith, their knowledge of God and His incredible world. From the books they read, to the songs they sing, to the projects they perfect, our children grow in their faith and their knowledge of our Savior through the teaching and opportunities provided at ACS.

Serving ACS has been a joy and a privilege and I am grateful for every opportunity I had to serve. It was through these opportunities that I made important and lasting connections with the amazing staff at ACS as well as the other parents.

It brings me to tears of joy to think of my parent’s generation, my generation and now the future generation of this community. These connections and treasured friendships that make our community so strong. We have no doubt that YOU, our community, will continue this legacy of service in God’s world. Get out there, make connections, and keep this strong Christian community thriving! Because THAT is what ACS is all about!

– Jeannine Lanning