Dear HCHS Families,
This year’s theme, The Joy of the Lord, reminds our community that true joy is found in knowing and walking with God. Flowing from the joy that comes from being in God’s presence is one of Holland Christian’s cultural values: Discovery—cultivating wonder and enriching faith through the lens of Scripture. Discovery invites students, teachers, and families to see learning as an act of worship, a way of exploring God’s creation and recognizing His fingerprint in every subject and educational experience.
From the very beginning of Scripture, God called His people into discovery. In Genesis, Adam and Eve were invited to name the animals, an act that required them to observe, explore, and delight in God’s creation (Gen. 2:19-20). This moment illustrates how discovery is part of humanity’s original calling. God did not simply give them all the answers; instead, He invited them to engage with the world, to learn from it, and to participate in His creative work.
Scripture is filled with moments where God’s people discover more of His character and purpose through curiosity and obedience. Abraham ventured into the unknown, discovering God’s faithfulness along the way (Gen. 12:1-4; Heb 11:8-10). Moses turned aside to see the burning bush and encountered the holiness of God (Ex. 3:1-6). The psalmist marveled at the heavens, recognizing that “the skies proclaim the work of His hands” (Ps. 19:1). Jesus reinforces this value in how He led His followers into discovery: teaching through parables, questions, and experiences that opened their eyes to the beauty of God’s Kingdom.
At Holland Christian, discovery is woven into every classroom and every subject. When students explore the intricacies of science, the creativity of art, the logic of mathematics, or the complexities of literature and history, they are invited to see God’s intricate hand at work. The cultivation of wonder encourages students to learn and know that every square inch of creation belongs to God and that the pursuit of knowledge can draw hearts closer to Him. Learning thus becomes an opportunity to transform curiosity into worship and study into spiritual formation.
This value of discovery strengthens Holland Christian’s mission: to equip minds and nurture hearts to transform the world for Jesus Christ. By encouraging students to ask questions, seek understanding, and delight in learning, we desire for every student to grow into thoughtful, faithful individuals who see God’s world as a place to love Him and their neighbors better each day. Discovery shapes not only strong thinkers but also joyful disciples who recognize that every new insight, every wonder uncovered, reflects the glory of the Creator.
May our community continue to pursue discovery with curiosity and joy, confident that each new thing learned is another glimpse into the vastness of God’s goodness and grace.
With Thanks,
Miles Colago
High School Principal
General Information
Veterans Day Assembly
You are invited to join us for our Veterans Day Assembly on Tuesday, November 11. Our program will begin at 9:30am in the high school gym.
First Semester Exams
- Students are not required to be at school unless they have an exam.
- You will not be allowed to take your exams until all detentions have been served, and you will not receive credit for your first semester courses until you take your exams.
- All lunch account negative balances must be paid before exams may be taken.
- All books must be returned and fines paid in the Media center before exams may be taken.
- Students who ride the bus should check with bus drivers to find out the bus schedule for exam week.
Exam Schedule
- Tuesday, January 13, 2026
- 8:45-10:15am 1st-hour exam
- 10:30am-12:00pm 2nd-hour exam -Tech Center required. Students may leave 2nd hour exam when finished; Tech will be notified that you may be late.
- Wednesday, January 14
- 8:45-10:15am 3rd-hour exam
- 10:30am-12:00pm 4th-hour exam – Tech Center required
- Thursday, January 15
- 8:45-10:15am 5th-hour exam
- 10:30am-12:00pm 6th-hour exam – Tech Center required
- Friday, January 16
- 8:45-10:15am 7th-hour exam
- 10:30am-12:00pm Make-up slot – Tech Center required
Dutch Dance
Counselors Corner
Decisions for Seniors
We have met with each senior individually to make sure they are on track with their post-high school planning and all that comes with it. Our encouragement to college bound seniors is to get their applications done soon in order to have the best opportunities for financial aid and scholarships. We also assist non-college bound seniors with career exploration, vocational opportunities, and job search skills.
Many colleges are SAT/ACT test-optional for acceptance, so testing may not be a requirement for acceptance. Some colleges are test-optional regarding scholarships as well. Students should check with individual colleges to determine if an ACT or SAT score is needed for merit-based scholarships. If scores are needed, the student should request them through their CollegeBoard or ACT student account.
When in doubt, it is best to connect with the admissions and/or financial aid office of the college(s) you are considering to get the most accurate information on admissions policies, scholarships, financial aid, and specific programs/opportunities.
Financial Aid
All students seeking financial aid (institution based, state & federal funds) must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online via the FAFSA Website. The FAFSA will be available for you to complete beginning in December. Be sure to check the financial aid link on each college website for specific information on their timelines. For helpful information on the FAFSA, check out this FAFSA Application guide.
The federal student aid estimator can provide you with an estimate of your Student Aid Index (SAI). This index is used by colleges to determine what types of student aid you may receive. Again, the financial aid office of the college(s) you are considering is a great place to start if you have specific FAFSA or financial aid questions.
Scholarships
Throughout the school year, various scholarship opportunities will be posted online through the Counseling Department. A listing of outside scholarships, both regional and national, is updated as we receive notices of scholarship opportunities. Beginning in January and early February, there will be information online about the Community Foundation of Holland/Zeeland scholarships that are open to Holland Christian students, and also internal HC scholarships, which are for full-time Holland Christian students only.
Helpful Resource for Financing College
- The MI Student Aid website has helpful information, links, and resources for students and families to use in navigating the college financial aid and scholarship landscape.
- The Sallie Mae Paying for College Resource is a helpful destination to guide students and families make a plan to pay for college. The resource is free, easy to use, and includes great information on all the important paying-for-college topics.
Testing Information
- The next ACT test date is December 13, 2025. Register for the ACT.
- Upcoming SAT test dates are November 8 & December 6. HCHS is a testing site for these dates. To register for the SAT.
- Test Preparation: There are free resources for SAT test preparation. There are also free resources available for ACT test preparation.
- PSAT: This test is a precursor to the SAT. It provides excellent practice for subsequent standardized tests and can provide valuable test preparation feedback and tools. The junior year is the only year a score is considered for the National Merit Scholarship consideration.
This year AP exam registration and payment will be done in the fall by Nov. 11, 2025. It is a two-step process, so be sure to complete both steps to register to take an AP test:
- Step 1: Register and pay for the test through Total Registration.
- Step 2: join your teacher’s AP Classroom and indicate you are interested in taking the AP test. (Many students have already done this with their teacher in class.)
Both steps need to be completed by Tuesday, Nov 11, 2025 at 11:59pm. The cost of each exam is $105, which can be paid online or by check. If you have questions contact Alison Silva in the High School office.
Meeting with Juniors/Parents
We will meet with the juniors on November 5 to talk about planning and preparing for senior year and life after high school. We will also be offering the opportunity for parents to join their student and his/her counselor for a junior + parents check-in meeting. Some of the information covered in the junior meeting will be taking the ACT/SAT, preparing for senior year, and discussing plans for life after high school. Since this is an important and transitional time in your student’s life, we want parents to have the option to sit in on this meeting. If a junior + parents meeting doesn’t work for you, we will still meet individually with each junior. Watch your email in the coming weeks for more information about these meetings.
College Athletics
- If you are considering attending a NCAA Division I or II school, and you hope to compete in athletics, the NCAA Eligiblity Center is an important place to start. It is the responsibility of the student and parents to be familiar with eligibility requirements and course specifics.
- If you are considering participating in athletics at the NAIA level, check out the NAIA eligibility center.
Fine Arts
Festival of Fine Arts
Celebrate Holland Christian High School’s Festival of Fine Arts! From student drawings and paintings to movie music, choral anthems, and the deep sounds of the tuba, prepare to enjoy a rich diversity of the arts:
- HS Choir Concert: Thursday, October 30 at 7:30pm in the HS Auditorium
- HS Bands & Orchestra Concert: Tuesday, November 4 at 7:30pm in the HS Auditorium
- Swingin’ the Night Away: Friday, November 14, 6:45-9pm in the HCHS cafeteria
- The Fall Art Exhibition will be on the gallery wall (along the ramp) on Main Street October 30 – November 6.
Swingin’ The Night Away
The Holland Christian Jazz Bands and the Old Timer’s Jazz Band are proud to present “Swingin’ the Night Away” in the HCHS cafeteria Friday, November 14, from 6:45 – 9pm. Admission is $5, to support the HCHS music program. Dance (or not), socialize, eat desserts, and enjoy the music of Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington and more!
Fall Musical: Pride and Prejudice!
We are proud to present the brand new musical, Pride and Prejudice! Based on the beloved novel by Jane Austen, the story follows clever and headstrong Elizabeth Bennet and her family, who are facing mounting pressure to marry off five daughters before their estate is inherited by a distant cousin. The family’s situation is complicated by the arrival of two gentlemen in their town: charming and wealthy Mr. Bingley, who instantly forms a crush on the eldest Bennet sister, and Mr. Darcy, his pompous and cold friend who becomes Elizabeth’s nemesis after a disastrous first encounter. As Bingley and Jane’s romance keeps pulling them into each other’s orbits, Elizabeth and Darcy find themselves sparring over their ideas of love, freedom and happiness. Their fiery exchanges and mutual disdain only seem to deepen, but underneath it all, something more complicated stirs. Can their intense animosity evolve into something deeper, or will their pride and prejudice tear them apart forever? Shows will be held at 7pm on November 20, 21, and 22 with an additional matinee at 2pm on the 22rd. Tickets available on the HCS Theater website on November 3rd.
Christmas Concert
The High School Music Department invites you to its annual band, orchestra and choir Christmas concert Tuesday, December 16 in the Jack H. Miller Center for the Musical Arts, located on the campus of Hope College. We will be offering two performance times: 6pm and 7:45pm. General admission is free and no reservations are necessary. We look forward to sharing in the celebration of our Savior’s birth through our music!
Athletic Department
Winter Sports Start Dates
- Boys Basketball: Nov 12
- Girls Basketball: Nov 19
- Competitive Cheer: Nov 10 (Co-op with West Ottawa)
- Boys Hockey: Oct 27 (Co-op with West Ottawa)
- Boys Aquatics: Nov 24
Scheduling/cancellations and game information can be found on the Athletics website.
Champs Coupon Books
The 2026 Champs coupon book is now available, with coupons ready to use from when the book is purchased through December 31, 2026. In addition to the local restaurant, retail and recreation savings opportunities, there are also coupons for regional and national businesses in the greater Holland area. Each book comes with a free code for mobile app discounts across the country based on your location, including West Michigan. Pick up your CHAMPS coupon book at any HC or ZCS school office, Russ’, Quality Car Wash, or HC TRIP table.
Little Maroons Basketball
The Little Maroons Basketball Clinics for girls and boys in grades kindergarten through sixth grade are ready for registration! More information and dates can be found through our online registration. The first clinic date is Saturday, November 15.
Important Dates
Holland Christian Schools 2025-26 Calendar
November
- 4: High School Bands & Orchestra Concert, 7:30pm
- 7: High School Choir Concert, 7:30pm
- 11: Veteran’s Day Assembly, 9:30am
- 14: Swingin’ the Night Away, 6:45pm
- 20, 21, 22: Fall Musical, Pride and Prejudice
- 27, 28, 29: Thanksgiving vacation, no school
December
- 13-14: 24 Hour Theatre
- 17: High school Christmas concert, 6:00 & 7:45pm
- 23: Christmas break begins