The Reformed Journal recently published an inspiring article about the gift of wonder. Blaine Crawford reflects that, as adults, we have a tendency at this time of year in particular to keep a tight schedule and routine. We steer our children away from mud and puddles and paths less taken. We mentally calculate the number of loads of laundry and the time necessary to clean up. Our adult world is efficient, mechanized, overly-scheduled. Our world is flattened.
“For most of us that clear-eyed vision, that true instinct for what is beautiful and awe-inspiring, is dimmed and even lost before we reach adulthood,” but a child’s world is “fresh and new and beautiful, full of wonder and excitement.”
And so, this Advent, take a walk outside to the forest or the seashore.
Better yet, take a child with you.
Delay dinner an hour and savor the setting sun.
Get up early to glimpse the crystallized frost on fallen leaves.
Stay up late to watch the stars light up the darkened sky.
If it snows, do not delay. Run outside to dance and play.
Become like a little child,
enter the Kingdom of God,
rightly astonished by the wonders God has shown you.”
May you bask together in the wonder and beauty of the gift of Jesus Christ. Merry Christmas and happy, healthy new year to each of you.
Much love and joy,
Miska
Announcements
Gadgets for Christmas
Just in case a child receives a smart device or personal tech with connectivity, we want to remind you of our policy to uphold healthy learning spaces throughout HC to the best of our ability.
Personal Technology: Personal Technology is not necessary in a school setting and disrupts the learning environment. Personal Technology includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Cell Phones
- Smartwatches
- Headphones or Earbuds
- Personal Laptops
- MP3-Players
- Etc. (i.e. Any non-school issued personal technology)
If parents need to communicate with their student, they can send their student an email or call the office and get a note from the office. Personal Technology items are not allowed to be used or visible during the time a student enters school until the final bell rings. If a student needs to use their phone, they must receive direct permission from a staff person to do so.
Absences & Appointments
Please call the school office at 616.820.3505 or email the Pine Ridge Office any time before 8:30am to let us know each day your child will be absent. You may leave a voicemail any time and it will be checked in the morning when the office opens. Please leave any symptoms your sick child may have; this information is a requirement for us to report to the county! Also, please note that we do have a 24-hour policy for any fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. For colds and coughs, please use your discretion as we know these things can linger.
Please inform the office of any appointments or early dismissal/late arrival information. That helps us make sure your student is ready for pickup or let’s us know they are coming later and are accounted for. All students must be signed in and out if coming after class has started or before the last bell.
Swimming Lessons
These lessons are provided at the Holland Aquatic Center. Holland Christian elementary students have the privilege of receiving swimming lessons each year through the Holland Aquatic Center. These lessons are provided during the school day for 2 weeks. We recognize that this program could be a little uncomfortable for children. Because our children are blessed to be raised in Michigan, surrounded by bodies of water, we believe this safety instruction is a blessing that we pray they will never need, but that we still feel responsible to equip them with. If you find yourself pondering over the “why” of lessons, please listen to HC mom Jenny White on the why swim safety. This HCAC Swim School welcome video can help you understand a bit about the logistics. Any questions please feel free to contact the office.
Swimming lessons will be happening March 17- 28 for 1st and 2nd graders this year!
2nd Grade Lost and Found
Don’t forget about the lost and found table at Pine Ridge! If your student is missing something, please check the photo album online or stop in and check it in person.
Pine Ridge Carpool Line
Please remember that you may only turn right out of the parking lot between 3:15-3:45 so we can still get cars in and out as quickly and safely as possible!
Also, remember to pull ALL the way up to the bike rack even if the weather isn’t ideal for pickup AND dropoff so we can fit as many cars in as possible. We cannot stop in the circle for any reason during those times.
AND please watch out for pedestrians and kids on bikes crossing the street!
Food Services
Please remember to keep an eye on your child’s lunch account.
Moms in Prayer
Moms in Prayer is a great way to connect with other moms, pray for your child, and have an impact on the school. Please join us on Fridays at Providence Church from 8:30-9:30am. Please email Nicole Shook with questions.
Elementary Handbook
The Elementary Handbook is a great resource for parents providing important details on things like our curriculum, discipline policy, etc.
Important Website Links
- School Calendar
- School Supply Lists
- Hot Lunch Information
- Medical Information & Forms
- School Transportation
- Before & After School Programs
Upcoming Dates:
View the full Holland Christian calendar
January:
- 1-3: No school: Christmas Vacation
- 6: Back to School!
- 15-17: Hearing & Vision testing 2nd Grade
- 17: K-5th Report Cards go live!
- 20: No school: MLK Day
February:
- 14: No school: Staff PD
- 17: No school: Winter Break
