Over 100 years ago, a handful of dedicated Christian parents began Holland Christian Schools to offer their children and others an education wholly integrated with God’s Word. That vision has grown into a school system of over 2,000 students. Since its inception Holland Christian has graduated over 13,000 young people equipped to impact the world for Christ. We continue to feed thousands of students each day academically and spiritually.
Holland Christian's teachers are certified by the State of Michigan and meet the expectations to be considered highly qualified under the federal No Child Left Behind Act.
Holland Christian’s staff includes:
114
teaching staff with 48% holding Master’s or Doctorate degrees.18
classroom support staff who assist in various phases of education.4
counselors who work with students from elementary through high school.In addition, Holland Christian's staff includes building administrators; program directors; counselors; administration office staff members including our superintendent; and support staff including secretaries, maintenance staff, and food service employees.
Technology
Administrators and teachers at Holland Christian Schools believe technology is becoming an increasingly critical part of the learning experience. The opportunities for students to learn will not stop when they graduate from high school so it is our task to equip them to be life long learners.
It all begins in elementary school. In kindergarten students begin using the computer to write stories, review concepts, and learn new skills. In third grade formal keyboarding lessons are introduced. Third, fourth, and fifth graders continue to improve keyboarding skills while also learning how to use other software, write reports, and use technology to do research.
In middle school the one-to-one laptop program begins where every student has his or her own laptop computer. Now every student, grades 6-12, have a laptop. Students are “wired” differently today and are more visual learners than students in the past. The use of a one-to-one laptop program enables the school to respond most effectively to learner needs. As a Christian school, this program also allows us to teach students discernment and ethical use of technology.
In middle school and high school students use technology to do research and produce products. Many learning activities are computer-based including homework and written lessons. Teacher/student/parent communication also relies heavily on the computer. Teachers are able to help students or answer parent questions quickly using email. Class syllabi and daily assignments are available 24/7 on the internet. Grades, attendance, and report cards are also available on-line for students and parents to view.
We see technology as a powerful tool that students need to use if they are to impact the world. We will continue to proactively teach students discernment and the ethical use of technology to impact our world for Christ.
Counseling
Four guidance counselors work with students from elementary through high school. Individual counseling and support is available at all schools and a variety of support groups are available at the middle and high schools. In addition, the High School counselors also assist 9th-12th grade students with career exploration and preparation.
Educational Support Services (ESS)
Holland Christian Schools believes that all children should have access to a Christian education. We provide a specialized educational program for students with mild to severe learning differences, meeting their needs in a personal, loving way. ESS also enhances educational experiences for those who need special assistance to maintain satisfactory progress in a regular classroom.
Occupational and Speech Therapies
In conjunction with local public schools, licensed therapists provide physical, occupational, and speech therapies. Student needs are identified by each building’s professional Child Study Team (building principal, counselor, ESS staff, classroom teacher, and school psychologist) in consultation with parents.
Gifted and Talented Educational Services (GATES)
Holland Christian strives to meet the educational needs of our high-ability students and help them develop their God-given potential to the highest level. We actively seek to provide opportunities for challenge and enrichment for these students because we believe that they deserve instruction and learning activities at a level and pace that is appropriate for their abilities. Whenever possible, extensions or advanced learning options also occur within the learning community of the regular classroom.