Dear Parents,
At our middle school, we believe music is not simply an elective—it is part of how we form students academically, spiritually, and as a community. That is why every 6th grader participates in either band, orchestra, or choir. As students grow, they are given additional choices, including Music Appreciation in 7th grade and Makers and Innovators in 8th grade. Even with these options, we remain committed to music because of the unique role it plays in a child’s development.
Music strengthens learning in powerful ways. It builds discipline, focus, and perseverance. It teaches students to listen well, work together, and strive for excellence. But in a Christian school, music also takes on a deeper purpose—it becomes a way we praise our Lord and use our gifts to serve others. As Psalm 100:1–2 reminds us, “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.”
We recently saw a beautiful example of this when our 8th grade choir visited Rest Haven. As the students sang hymns, I had the opportunity to speak with some of the guests listening to our choir. I met a couple who shared that they were having a particularly difficult day after the loss of a loved one. While their pastor was on the way to pray with them, they paused and shared that our students had been a bright spot in their otherwise difficult day.
That moment is a reminder of why we do what we do. Our students are not only learning notes and rhythms—they are learning how to bring light, joy, and the love of Christ into the lives of others.
We are also excited to share that both our 7th and 8th grade band and orchestra received Division I “Superior” ratings at District Festival.
Looking ahead, there are several wonderful opportunities for our students to share their gifts with the community. Our band will be marching in both the Tulip Time parade and the Memorial Day parade, and all of our 6th grade music groups will be performing hymns during our Grandparents Day on May 8. These moments are more than performances—they are opportunities for students to serve, connect, and worship through music. Our Orchestra and Choir will also have their Spring concerts in May, where they can showcase their hard work from this year.
Thank you for your continued support of our music program. We are grateful for the ways you partner with us as we help students grow and use their gifts for God’s glory.
Tom Strikwerda
Principal
May at HCMS
Save the Date!
- You are cordially invited to our Grandparents/Grandfriends Day celebration on May 8 from 1:30-2:40PM. Doors will open at 1:15. Parents- please fill out this quick Google Survey so we can plan for our afternoon accordingly. We strongly encourage you to invite a grandparent, grand friend or mentor from your neighborhood or church.
- 8th Grade Graduation will be held Tuesday, June 2 at 6:00 PM at HCHS. The Parent Board will be hosting an after-party for the students. Stay tuned for more details! There will be no school for 8th graders on Wednesday, June 3.
Athletic Physical Night
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- We encourage every child to see their PCP for their well-child visit but also understand that MHSAA preparticipation sports physical requirements do not always align with the annual well child with your physician due to insurance requirements. MHSAA requires that physicals must be dated after April 15th.
- A sports physical night through the school helps alleviate those insurance issues. It is beneficial to see your PCP as they know your previous history and can note any oddities. Sports Physicals through the school allow for a way to fulfill the MHSAA requirements when insurance does not cover an additional physical.
- It is important to have your physical before the first day of your sport’s season. You are required to be cleared through an MD, DO, NP, or PA who will check for major medical concerns that may arise during the sports seasons.
- Holland Christian will participate in two community-wide Athletic Physical Nights this Spring- April 23 and May 6
- **Any parents willing to volunteer their time as any of the following: Physician, Nurse, PT, expert crowd control or healthcare professional; please reach out to Karianne @ kreger@hollandchristian.org**
Important Dates
May
6: Sports Physical Night
7: Half Day (Tulip Time)
8: Grandparents’ Day 1:30-2:40 @ HCMS
13: Orchestra Concert 7:30 PM
14-15: 7th Grade Camp
20: MS Choir Concert 7 PM @ HCHS
25: No School- Memorial Day
June
2: Last Day of School for 8th Grade; 8th Grade Service Day+ Graduation Rehearsal
8th Grade Graduation 6:00 @ HCHS
3: Last Day of School- ½ Day (no school for 8th graders)