OC Knightline - Winter 2015 by Ontario Christian Schools

volume 10 no.2

WINTER 2015

Knightline A publication of the Ontario Christian Schools

in this issue q Remembering Al De Vries

04-05

q Never in Vain 06 q Unpampered on Purpose

Special Edition Annual Report Included for Upcoming Association Meeting See pages 10-27

Preschoolers Enjoy Snow Day! Visit ocschools.org for more photos

A tri-annual publication of the Ontario Christian Schools q Preschool thru grade 12 q www.ocschools.org

Contact Info

KnightLine

Business Office Office Hours: Summer Office Hours: High School Middle School Elementary School Preschool PSP Office

(909) 983.4644 7:30-4:00 Mon-Fri. 8:00-2:00 Mon-Thurs. (909) 984.1756 (909) 983.1671 (909) 983.1010 (909) 983.2420 (909) 983.4644 ext 183

A publication of the Ontario Christian Schools Adminisration

in this issue q Registration time is near

q Remembering Al De Vries

q Never in Vain

q True Identity

q Unpampered on Purpose

q Pay It Forward

Superintendent: H.S. Principal: H.S. Assistant Principal: M.S. Principal: Elementary Principal: Preschool Director: Director of Admissions/ Development: Business Manager: Director of Technology:

Mr. Ryan Groen Mr. Tim Hoekstra Mr. David Parkes Mr. Bob DeGroot Mr. Mike Wiersma Mrs. Jane Reichert Mrs. Dianne De Groot Mrs. Ellie Begley Mr. Ken Yeh

Board of Trustees

q annual meeting announcement q Annual report

11-27

Administrative Report

Board of Trustees & nominees

03/04/2014 Association Minutes

Proposed budget Report

22-24

25-27

q MArket Place q calendar

Back Cover

Alan Bos Marc de Falkenberg William De Jong Dave De Koekkoek Kim Fikse David Kooiman

Lisa Vander Meulen Marty Van Leeuwen Brad Verhoeven Gary Voortman Brent Westra

The Knightline is published three times a year. This newsletter is a publication of Ontario Christian Schools at 931 W. Philadelphia Street in Ontario, California. Ontario Christian Schools is a member of Christian Schools International (CSI) and is accredited by CSI and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The mission of Ontario Christian Schools is to provide a Biblically-based, quality education for the children of Christian parents that nurtures students to grow in knowledge, conviction, and maturity; therefore, our focus is to equip students with the vision and skills to engage all relationships and culture under the authority of Jesus Christ. The purpose of this publication is to foster strong ties between Ontario Christian Schools and its alumni, supporters, and association members to nurture Christian education in the school and in the family, and to better inform its readers of the activities of Ontario Christian Schools. Alumni are encouraged to submit news and photos to Nicole at ndevries@ocschools.org. We reserve the right to edit.

931 West Philadelphia Street Ontario CA 91762-6218

www.ocschools.org â&#x20AC;˘ Member of CSI

Ontario christian schools

Please inform the school of any address changes by providing both the old and new address.

Credits Project Coordinator Design Printing

Regina Wang Central Creative Kindred Corporation

Registration Time for the 2015–16 School Year Kindergarten through 12th Grade Registration Once again we have the wonderful opportunity to give our children the gift of Christian education. We greatly appreciate your investment in your child’s Christian education, and the Board of Trustees looks forward to meeting with OC families at the priority registration times. Below are the registration dates for current students to register: To register please turn in:

Priority Registration $150 fee per child; $300 fee per family Tuesday, Feb. 24 ------> 5:30pm-8:00pm ------> Families whose last name begins with A-M Wednesday, Feb. 25 ---> 7:45am-10:00am -----> For all families for whom it is convenient Thursday, Feb. 26 -----> 5:30pm-8:00pm ------> Families whose last name begins with N-Z Families can come to the High School library to register Early Registration Feb. 27 — April 3

$250 fee per child; $400 fee per family Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm Families can come to the Business Office to register

Standard Registration After April 3

$400 fee per child; $550 fee per family Contact the Business office to register

1) Registration Form 2) Emergency form for each child 3) Parent Pledge Commitment Form. Students in grades 7 – 12 will be required to sign the Parent Pledge and Student Pledge. 4) Pay Registration Fee – the fee is determined by the date you register (see above) Your registration forms will be reviewed and then officially processed.

For more information on registration fees and dates, contact Dianne De Groot, Director of Admissions, at 909-983-4644 or you can email her at ddgroot@ocschools.org.

Preschool Registration Preschool registration for current preschool families will begin March 2; for OC families adding a new preschooler will begin March 16; and for the public registration will begin March 30. Options for preschool schedule: Half days in the morning, school day—8:15-2:45, Full days— 7:30-4:30 and Extended days for extra care—6:30 AM-6:30 PM. Schedules may have 2, 3 or 5 days. The preschool will be running a summer program beginning June 15 and a school year session which follows the OCS school calendar.

Jr. K is a 5 day program, with a choice of ½ day, School Day8:15-2:45, Full Day-7:30-4:30 or Extended care-6:30 AM6:30 PM. This is for those that turn 5 on Sept. 1 through Dec. 2, or those that will benefit staying back from kindergarten another year. For more information and a tour call: Jane Reichert, Preschool Director – 909-983-2420 or email: jreichert@ocschools.org.

We praise God for the opportunity and privilege of Christian education. We are thankful and encouraged by your commitment to invest in your children. The Board of Trustees, Ontario Christian School

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Recent News & Events

Remembering Al De Vries A teacher, husband, father, and friend, Al De Vries’ life has touched many. by Regina Wang, Marketing Coordinator

One January morning at a men’s Bible study at CrossPoint, a man named Joel asked Don Agema, a former OC teacher, where Al De Vries was. Don told Joe that Al had died on December 30, eight days before his 78th birthday. Joel, who attends the church’s Chinese ministry, was stunned. Then he said something that made Don miss his old friend very much.

A few years later, George, who was the elementary school principal at the time, was baffled by a strange sight. Out of a window facing the playground, he saw Al stagger toward his office with great difficulty, bumping into walls along the way. He told George that he had been losing his balance in the classroom. At age 29, Al was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) by the doctors at the UCLA Medical Center. MS is an autoimmune disease in which one’s immune system destroys its own tissues. The news was a blow to the De Vries family. Al’s muscles weakened as time progressed. At first, Al walked around the campus with a cane; then he had to use a wheelchair, and finally, a motorized scooter. Loureen remembers a prayer she and Al often prayed over their four children: “Lord, allow Al to work so we could get our children through high school.” One thing his friends remember most about Al is that they never heard him complaining. Not only did he not complain, he did not act like he had anything to complain about, says former OC board member Gary Voorman. In fact, people remember often seeing a smile on his face.

Al and Loureen De Vries. Al lived a full life despite struggling with multiple sclerosis for more than 40 years. “He said, ‘Al was the one who welcomed me into this group. He accepted me. Because of his accepting me, I keep coming,’” Don remembers. Acceptance of others was what made Albertus De Vries, who was born in 1937 in Edgerton, Minnesota, a dear friend to many, but what made him extraordinary was his joyful acceptance of a life marked with a debilitating illness and suffering. In 1964, after a short stint at Arcadia Christian School, Al was hired to teach at Ontario Christian Schools. He and his wife Loureen soon became good friends and neighbors with former OC superintendent George Groen and his wife, Betty. Both grew up on Minnesota farms, and they went camping and hiking together.

Ontario christian schools

At work, Al taught science to 6th graders. He mentored OC 5th grade teacher Rick Jasper when Rick started teaching in 1980. Al’s passion and determination for teaching struck Rick, especially his heart for the struggling students. Rick remembers that early on in his teaching, he tended to complain about having piles of papers to grade. Then he found out Al wasn’t complaining, not even when his fingers lost dexterity. Unable to pick up just one piece of paper at a time, Al would start with a stack of five then slowly fiddled his fingers to find the one. Once, Al came into Rick’s classroom with blood all over his face. He had fallen in the rest room and hit his head on a sink. But he wouldn’t let Rick take him to the hospital. He just asked Rick to help him clean up the wound so he could go back to the classroom. Another time he fell out of his scooter. A roomful of noisy kids fell silent. “I couldn’t have had a better person to teach me,” Rick says, “the determination, the love, the passion—to face every day and keep standing.” Loureen remembers how much Al loved his students; he would spend an entire week in August to prepare for the new semester.

“He expected obedience in his classroom, and the kids respected him for demanding that,” she says. Both George Groen and former school board member, Ed Talen, had children and grandchildren who had Al as a teacher. They often came home with stories of Al’s testimonies of God’s faithfulness. “Parents considered it a privilege to have kids in Al’s class,” George says. “It gave them an opportunity to see what disability was and to have faith in the midst of difficulty.” Many of his students remember that Mr. De Vries would allow them to ride his scooter to the office and back during the first week of school to “get it out of their system,” as Al would like to say. Debbie (Van’t Land) Peters (‘92) was one of them. She remembers how structured his class was and how kind he was as a teacher. When she was growing up, her mother was often hospitalized. Mr. De Vries, she remembers, was understanding as his condition gave him a special empathy toward the hurts of his students. At school, Al had the reputation of being the wise man, according to Rick. He was always ready to help his fellow teachers. At home, he was the one who encouraged his family that there was no obstacle too great to overcome. This was true in Al’s life as well as in his daughter Susan’s life. One year before Al was diagnosed with MS, Susan was born with a dominant gene that made her grow up only to be 3’11’’ tall. Susan got ill so often during the first three years of her life that Al and Loureen wondered how her life would turn out. It was a difficult time for the family. Loureen remembered they prayed a lot. “Our faith carried us through,” she says. There was also help from their community—people who paid for their daughters’ braces, gave the family milk every week, and even gave them half of a slaughtered cow. “They really loved us,” she says. As a student at OC, Susan was asked by a fellow student, “How come you’re so short?” “Because God made me this way,” Susan responded with complete confidence. Susan graduated from OC in 1983 and attended Dordt College. Loureen remarks that even to this day, there is not too much that can deter Susan. When Al retired from OC in 1997 after 37 years of teacher (33 years at OC), Connie, Al and Loureen’s other daughter, wrote to congratulate her father on his retirement and thank him for his influence on her. “The biggest gift that I have received and still receive from my dad is the confidence and encouragement that I can be and do anything that I want to,” she wrote. Al and Loureen’s marriage has been an example to many. After his retirement, Al wanted to travel, so Loureen, who worked as a part-time RN, arranged her schedule to drive the family RV across the country.

Their marriage was also marked with hardship. Loureen remembers that Al had wanted to move to the East Coast because of its historical richness, but had to give up the hope because his disability would make it difficult to travel in snow. When Loureen retired from nursing in 2003, she also had to give up the dream of living life the way she wanted in her retirement. In 2014, their daughter Connie died from a long battle with melanoma. Together, Loureen says, they learned how to surrender to God. This was not lost in the eyes of their friends. “All the suffering in Al and Loureen’s lives has taught them how to persevere,” George Groen says, “a great life lesson for all of us who are privileged to be in their lives.” Don Agema remembers Al would remind him when he caught life’s curve balls. “Don’t consume your life in worrying about it,” Al told him. “Turn it over to the Lord. He’ll do what’s best.” The words still ring in Don’s heart because he knows Al had to live it himself. “He taught a lot of people how to live with thankfulness, gratitude and praise to God,” Don says. Every morning after breakfast, Al would take out and read his Bible. Then he took out a prayer list to pray for his children and their families. When that was done, he took out a second prayer list for Mission India to pray for people in India to come to know the Lord. Only then would he read other books. A history buff, Al enjoyed reading about history and the presidents. Gary Voorman remarked that when students were in Al’s class, they tended to thrive. Similarly, people around him tended to grow gently through the way he lived his life. He didn’t speak much, but when he did, everyone listened. In her letter, Connie described her father the best: “The way that he has led his life so close to God is an inspiration to more persons than he will ever realize.”

“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” — Romans 5:3-4 Memorial gifts may be made to: Ontario Christian Schools Foundation 931 W. Philadelphia St. Ontario, CA 91762

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Never in Vain Alumni News

Shannon Fuller (’02) talks about how the OC community is now part of her journey to working with a ministry for teen moms. by Regina Wang, Marketing Coordinator

When Shannon Fuller (’02) reflects on her time as a student at Ontario Christian, it is the deep, enriching relationships that come to mind. Thirteen years later, these relationships have endured to bless not just her but her work to develop a ministry to teen moms. Attending OC since kindergarten, Shannon remembers riding with the basketball teams to and from games, chitchatting until the wee hours at volleyball sleepovers, and dressing up for school spirit days. She still remembers the laughs and conversations she had under the pavilion during lunchtime with her friends. “It was the friendships that made it most fun,” Shannon says.

Shannon Fuller (‘02) has a heart for the marginalized. She works with a ministry to reach out to teen moms in Chino.

Her relationships with her teachers also made an impact on her. She learned how to love people from Mr. Nelson Miedema. In Mr. Miedema’s science class, he gave every student a nickname. Even though Shannon cannot remember why he nicknamed her “SPF”, she remembers the freedom she had of being herself in his class.

“He made each student feel valued and important as a person,” she says. Her passion took her to major in social work and Spanish at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Then she moved back to California to obtain her master’s of social work at California State University, Long Beach. She applied the same love in her previous job working as a clinical social worker with children and their families in Long Beach. It was a hard, grueling job. “The biggest desire of my heart is to fiercely love others in Jesus’ name,” she says. When she first began her job, Shannon enjoyed counseling and walking with people through some really difficult times. But as time went on, the oppressive weight of seemingly hopeless situations began to crush her spirit. Doubt and hurt began to suffocate her faith.

Ontario christian schools

“Finding God in the midst of so much suffering wasn’t something that happened overnight for me,” she says. “It was a process, a really difficult process.” Five years later, in 2012, she moved back home to Chino, a decision she now sees as God’s loving faithfulness. “God allowed me to struggle in that and then used that brokenness in my life to shape my call and call me home, home to Him and home to Chino” Now a church member at the Bridge, her faith is being renewed. Meanwhile, her heart is also being healed. She has learned that it is OK not to have answers when someone is suffering. “You just sit there and love them and that’s how you’re being Jesus to them,” she says. In addition to the renewal, God had another gift for her. She was approached to spearhead a ministry called YoungLives that will reach out to teen moms who are raising children on their own. The goal of YoungLives, a branch of parent organization Young Life, is to develop a team of mentors to come alongside teen moms with compassion, and to support teen moms to make positive choices and to live a faith rooted in Christ. Shannon was moved to see the vision of YoungLives—to have the opportunity to touch not just the lives of teen moms but to shape future generations. She said yes to the invitation. “It’s been so rewarding,” she says. “I know this is what I’m supposed to be doing.” Better yet, God has also used her connection with the OC community to bless this ministry. A number of people from the OC community have signed up to serve as mentors, volunteers, and donors for teen moms. These women do not know for sure what will happen, but they are ready to love, listen and support. Most of all, she can see that the struggles in her journey have not been in vain. “I see how my experiences prepared me for this,” she says. This time, Shannon is not embracing people’s pain alone, but with God, the support of her church community, and friends from OC.

Would you like to be a mentor to teen moms or learn about the many other ways to become involved? Please contact Shannon Fuller for more information. 909-261-1377 chinovalleyyounglives@gmail.com

True Identity OC alumna Isabella Silva (’10) shares her experience of finding God and finding herself on a mission training in Thailand. by Regina Wang, Marketing Coordinator Even as a child, Isabella Silva (’10) had always known that she loved the diversity of God’s creation. She wanted to see the world, to experience God’s love in other cultures, and to love those who are different from her. Her AP History teacher Mr. Nate Kok remembers Isabella, known as Bella to her Ontario Christian community, as an inspiration to those around her. “Since high school she has always had a real love of life, of people, and energy and joy that would always bring everyone else’s spirits up,” says Mr. Kok. After Isabella graduated from Azusa Pacific University, she learned about an opportunity to be a “media missionary” with a Thailand-based organization called MediaLight. Interested in the creative arts, she applied for the 10-week program. When she was accepted, she spent a month fundraising. Then she flew to Chiang Rai, Thailand, to begin rigorous training on videography, photography, editing, documentary making, and writing to use the power of story for quality and authentic gospel media. The goal was to equip students with a holistic training in media production, leadership and gospel training. “Video is the best vehicle to share the gospel,” Isabella says. “It surpasses the language barrier and isn’t intrusive.” Isabella joined teammates who came from South Africa, Myanmar, France, and Indonesia to learn filmmaking as well as disciple making, as the training placed an emphasis on shaping their knowledge of self, of Jesus-centered teachings, and of media. Toward the end of the program, Isabella and her team had the opportunity to put on an exhibition at a local university. They engaged in spiritual conversations with many Thai students who, upon seeing these thought-provoking videos and photos, started to have an openness to just ask questions and talk about their stories, which would sometimes lead to spiritual conversations. The experience transformed Isabella. She saw why God had brought her to Thailand. The theme of the exhibition was “Putting on Masks,” a topic with which she was familiar and an area in her life where God has done much healing. Funny and outgoing, Isabella was well-receieved at OC.

She was elected as the class president for three out of the four years. She was involved in volleyball, track, and yearbook. By her senior year, she was the editor-in-chief for yearbook and treasurer for ASB. Her presence was everywhere, including the school play and the talent show. Graduating with a 4.2 GPA with an impeccable record of achievements, she represented her class to receive the Christian leadership award. In retrospect, Isabella sees an insecure girl desperately wanting to please those around her. On the outside, she was the star student, but on the inside, she felt lost. “I really had a good time in high school, but I put so much of my identity in the wrong things and lost touch of who I was,” she says. Her false identity tumbled when, after much striving, she failed to become the ASB president and volleyball captain. She sensed an emptiness within her. She realized that she didn’t know who she was without her titles and achievements. She remembers going to school with a bubbly and happy appearance, but coming home depressed due to her identity crisis. Gradually, she began to have the courage to be honest with herself and to simply be herself. It was difficult to unmask. As she looks back, she knows that even in the depth of her pain, Jesus was there. “Jesus had never let go of me, even when I wasn’t trying to hold on to him,” Isabella says. “It was cool to see how faithful Jesus was.” When she thinks of OC, She thanks Mr. Jon Schaap, who awakened her imagination and taught her to think outside the box, and Mr. Kok, who sent the seniors in his class away with note cards of advice on life that encouraged them when things got hard. She still has the note card in her wallet.

Isabella Silva (‘10) traveled to Thailand to spread the love of Christ through creating powerful videos.

Now she works for a nonprofit in Thailand to communicate God’s love to the world. She continues to seek God for her calling. Nothing, she says, is better than being the person God created her to be. “True freedom for me has been trying to love and appreciate all that I am and see myself how Christ sees me.”

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Unpampered on Purpose Community News

In one year, a group of women raised enough money to build a well in a village in Guatemala. How did they do it? by Regina Wang, Marketing Coordinator

In January 2014, God spoke to Carleen Maurer during a time when she was least expecting it—while she was watching the Oscars. Mesmerized by the glamorous stars who painstakingly put together dazzling outfits for the media’s scrutiny, Carleen suddenly had an urge to have her hair and nails done professionally. As she quickly added up the cost in her head to tell her husband, she turned and saw a photo of a boy her family sponsors in Guatemala. In the photo, Jose’s big brown eyes and timid smile reminded her of a mission trip she participated in Guatemala in 2012, where children suffered from mental retardation and health problems because of the lack of clean water.

Clockwise: Carleen Maurer (striped skirt), Amanda Schelbauer, Michelle Reidman, Christie Swangel, Ryan Merandi, Kelly Merandi, Brody Merandi, Jayden Merandi, Rachel Swangel, Julie Reidman, Brenna Maurer, Hayden Maurer, and Kim Schelbauer. Not pictured: Lynda Chappell

“I believe the Holy Spirit convicted me that moment,” Carleen says. Her eyes were opened to see her self-centered desires versus the needs of others. Although she was not quite sure what it would look like, she knew she had to do something. She also knew she could not do it alone.

A technology coach and computer teacher at Ontario Christian, Carleen utilized social media to call for help. That same night, she posted on Facebook, asking if anyone wanted to join her to sacrifice pampering for the well-being of others. Her post struck a chord in many. Fifteen women signed up, including OC teachers Christie Swangel, Kim Schelbauer, and Lynda Chappell; OC parents Michelle Riedman and Kelly Merandi; and OC alumna Amanda Shelbauer (‘14). They named their group “Unpampared On Purpose,” and together they set a goal to raise $7,600 to build a water well, with the hopes of it being built in Guatemala. Their first event was to throw a house party to do their nails for one another so that they could donate the money that they otherwise would spend at a nail salon. To build community, they discussed questions like, “Why do you think Jesus valued the widow who only gave a penny?”

Ontario christian schools

“It’s not about the amount, but to sacrifice what we want in order to provide for someone’s needs and do it in the name of Jesus,” Carleen says. These women sacrificed different “pamperings” to donate the money toward the well. OC teacher Christie Swangel, who sacrificed getting massages, said she was humbled to see other women giving of themselves. She was also reminded that all her possessions were “on loan” from God and the importance of being a good steward. “At the meeting we talked about ‘stuff’ and how acquiring worldly ‘stuff’ can actually suffocate a person and clutter our hearts,” Christie says. The passion of these women was so infectious that it spread to Carleen’s church, Inland Hills Church. Several church small groups followed suit and threw their own Unpampered on Purpose house parties. For their birthdays, two women Carleen knows asked people to donate to the well instead of giving them presents. Even her daughters sold their toys and worked at a garage sale with all proceeds going toward the well. Carleen started blogging about the exciting happenings, and it caught the attention of Ali Eastburn, who, also convicted of the need to provide clean water, started an organization called With This Ring. She invited Carleen to do a livecast with women in seven other states on Google Hangouts to share her story. Inspired by the success of Unpampared on Purpose, a woman in Georgia decided to start a chapter in her city. The group also approached Christian author, Jenny Allen, asking her to donate her books toward their cause. She not only donated her books but also tweeted her praise about the group. When the deadline came around the corner, Carleen realized they were short $2,400 to reach their goal of $7,600. She talked with her husband to donate an end-of-the-year gift to make up the difference, but they were not quite able to do it. When she mentioned this to a friend who had been supporting the cause, the friend was shocked to hear they needed that much more money, knowing her church had donated a significant amount a few months earlier. Carleen, who was unaware of that donation, quickly realized that it must have been mistakenly undesignated. Carleen traced the check, she was amazed to discover it was written for $2,412—almost exactly what they needed to complete the well. In August, she and a few women in the group will travel to a region called Masagua in Guatemala, where a well will be built. Carleen says she is still stunned by how God multiplied the little she and others gave. “God can use the smallest sacrifice for His kingdom and glory,” she says. “When you work together, you can make a difference.”

Pay It Forward Ann Olson, OC parent and substitute teacher, traveled to Japan in 2012 and 2014, to encourage those who experienced devastating loss during the Great East Japan Earthquake. by Regina Wang, Marketing Coordinator In March 2011, a magnitude-9.0 earthquake shattered lives in Eastern Japan. A subsequent tsunami further devastated many coastal towns, killing nearly 16,000 people. In one coastal town in particular, the death toll reached over 600. The town’s name was Yamamoto, known for its commercial fishing and strawberry production. The tsunami left many children in Yamamoto orphans. One year later, Ann Olson read in a church bulletin about the aftermath of the tsunami and the urgent needs of the children in Yamamoto. A substitute teacher at Ontario Christian, Ann has continued to serve after her sons Jonathan (’08) and Jordan (’12) graduated. Sensing the need to take action, she and OC teachers Pam Powell and Dawn Fennema traveled to Yamamoto to work with Nozomi Center (nozomi means hope in Japanese), a relief center created by three mission organizations and the Reformed Church of Japan. According to Ann, it was shocking to see a town stripped of houses and transportation, and its people suffering. Ann’s team was immediately put to work. For two weeks they rolled up their sleeves to plant rice and clean out fields. They also learned about the intricacies of Japanese culture, such as being on time and taking off one’s shoes when entering a house. In the summer of 2014, Ann decided to return to Yamamoto with her husband, Chris, and a team. Ann was overjoyed to see signs of life coming back to the devastated town, such as a new train station and a seawall to prevent future tsunami attacks. However, at the same time, quite a few businesses had pulled out and people had moved away. The monstrous disaster forever left its mark on Yamamoto. “People are distraught and try to work through their grief, but the culture doesn’t allow them to mourn,” Ann says. That is why she is grateful for the Nozomi Center, staffed by Japanese Christians and missionaries who care for the townspeople with God’s love and grace. As volunteers for the center, Ann and her teammates taught after-school English class, led group exercise, and sponsored an English camp. They also threw a party for the townspeople by making them a big American-style BBQ.

Top Left: Ann and her husband, Chris, traveled from Los Angeles to love the people in Yamamoto in the Miyagi Prefecture. Top Right: Nazomi Center is a Christian relief organization that has been well received in the community. Bottom: Ann did crafts with kids who attended the English camp.

“We were there to love and encourage them,” Ann says. “The Japanese thought the world had forgotten about them. They were very surprised to see you’d come all the way to help them.” Trust began to emerge as the townspeople saw that the Americans were there simply there to listen and help. Through keichō (Japanese for “active listening”), Ann and her teammates helped the townspeople to express deep grief from losing a spouse, a child, a parent. Building trust led to conversations about faith. Many have noted that disasters tend to create a spiritual openness, and such is the case in Japan. The team also encouraged missionaries who have stayed in Japan for decades. On Sunday, they attended a local church, worshipping with Japanese hymns that Ann knew in English. The experience touched Ann, as she knows that one day every tongue and tribe will stand before the throne of God, worshipping Him together. Ann is grateful to have had the opportunity to encourage the people in Yamamoto. The gift of encouragement, she has learned, is often passed on from one person to the next. “The gift of encouragement is what the OC community has given me with subbing,” she says. “And I in turn get to encourage the kids and the staff.” In Ann’s eyes, it is win-win.

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OC ANNUAL REPORT c 2015

Ontario Christian School ASSOCIATION

MEETING HIGHLIGHTS:

Administrative Report Nominees for Board of Trustees Proposed Budget for 2015–2016 march

3, 2015

chap albers

p.m.

Have the first scoop on the administrative report and proposed budget for 2015-16 Get to know new board members Hear about OC’s directions and future Give your input … and more As approved at the 2012 Association Meeting, the Board of Trustees is presenting one nominee for each open position on the 2015-2016 Board of Trustees. Ballots to approve or disapprove of the nominees will be distributed at the Association Meeting and will also be available in the Business Office for association members who are not able to attend the meeting on March 3. ONTARIO CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL • 931 WEST PHILADELPHIA STREET • ONTARIO, CA 91762

Ontario christian schools

OC ANNUAL REPORT c 2015

2014-2015 Annual Report:

From the Superintendent’s Desk by Ryan Groen, Superintendent Dear Friends, River rafting has always captivated me, and I have had the opportunity to go white-water rafting in Colorado, Arizona, Utah, and Brazil. One of my first rafting experiences was a family trip on the Colorado River near Moab, Utah, when I was in high school. At one point, when we were out on our rafts for a break, my younger brother was swept away in the current. I went down the river after him, and thankfully, we were both able to reach a point where we could regain our footing and stand firm. Needless to say, I have a deep respect for the power of currents and also a genuine appreciation of a firm place to stand. Our school theme this year is Stand Firm from I Corinthians 15:58, “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” We live in a culture with powerful philosophical currents that our students face every day. By God’s grace, Ontario Christian’s students can stand firm in the midst of these currents. OC students are receiving an education that has a firm foundation in God’s word. OC students are being mentored by teachers, coaches, parents, and pastors who are also seeking to stand firm on God’s word. This solid place to stand gives our students tremendous opportunities as they endeavor to serve the Lord with their gifts and talents in college, in university, and in the workplace. There is no doubt that our society has benefited and continues to benefit from Ontario Christian Schools. It is becoming more and more apparent that our homes, our churches, our communities, our nation, and our world need Christian Leaders. Christian leaders are those who stand firm for what is right even when the currents of wrong threaten to sweep them away. In addition, Christian leaders are those who develop new God-honoring currents in culture such as William Wilberforce did in abolishing the slave trade in 19th century England. Ontario Christian students are being equipped both to stand firm in culture and to lead it as well. Thank you so much for your support. We greatly appreciate the generosity of our donors, supporters, and parents who sacrifice to give of their resources and pay tuition. Your financial contributions are making a difference in the lives of our students and in our society! Warmly in Christ, Ryan K. Groen, Superintendent

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OC ANNUAL REPORT c 2015

High School Report Tim Hoekstra, High School Principal

Our motto is Growing Christian Leaders, and our goal is to continue to train up young people in the way that they should go. Our mission is to provide Biblically based education for the children of Christian parents that nurture students to grow in knowledge, conviction, and maturity. Our focus is to equip them with the vision and skill to engage all relationships and culture under the authority of Jesus Christ.

Tim Hoekstra wants you to know that the high school has had an exciting year and asks you to continue to pray for our students. Ontario Christian graduated our 54th senior class in June 2014, and sent them off to college, the military, or the work force. They attend many of the best colleges and universities in the country. We were able to recognize the 50th anniversary of the graduating class of 1964 at the graduation with a number of the original graduates attending. Our 2014 valedictorians included an international student, Karen Xiao, who told her story of coming to faith during her freshman year. She testified to increased dependence on God as she applied for college, and tried to follow His leading. She was accepted to study at UCLA. Her powerful testimony embodied God’s faithfulness to His people. Congratulations to another fine class of Christian leaders. The springtime of 2014 included a wonderful evening with the teaching staff, juniors, and seniors for the banquet at the Reef in Long Beach. We all shared a wonderful evening, including dinner, entertainment, and a time to dance. The creativity of our students was showcased at the Night of the Knightengale where student work was read, displayed, and shared. This has been a wonderful way to exhibit and express the artistic side of our students.

Ontario christian schools

School-wide, we implemented Professional Learning Communities in the fall of 2013 with weekly, dedicated time for teachers to evaluate student work and to collaborate on ways to improve student achievement. This has been a helpful addition to staff and student development, and we believe that we are already seeing the benefits. Ontario Christian students took nearly 180 AP exams this year, and again achieved our highest passing percentage ever. OC had four current seniors received National Merit Scholarship Letters of Commendation for their 2014 PSAT performance. We applaud our students and staff for their hard work, perseverance, and commitment to academic excellence. Our fine arts program presented a series of outstanding concerts that are enjoyed by all. Mrs. Kraut and Mr. Vande Griend have been able to develop their choir and band programs for even more students this year. We celebrated Christmas with a concert held at a local church with band and choir students from grades 5-12. OCHS 2014 drama productions included Still Life with Iris and the 2014 Talent Show. We have great actors and directors. The 2014 golf team was Ambassador League champions and brought home our first golf CIF championship in history. Campus upgrades this past year included remodeling the former snack shack, creating the Knights’ Corner Kitchen. We would like to express many thanks and much appreciation for Rick Gallagher’s fine work heading up the remodel. Jo Ann Vander Meulen is our campus chef, and we are all enjoying delicious, freshly prepared food each day, including breakfast on Thursday mornings. Favorites include grilled cheese, macaroni and cheese, fresh baked cookies, daily soups, and cinnamon rolls. You’ll have to try the cinnamon rolls; they are great. The Kitchen also caters events both on and off campus. We are blessed to have it so good. Ontario Christian continues to offer a variety of clubs that meet on and off campus, planning activities for students both during and after the school day. We would like to express thanks to our Moms in Prayer, and to our parents for their continued prayers on behalf of the students and staff at Ontario Christian High School. We know that your prayers make a difference! Respectfully submitted, Tim Hoekstra, Principal

OC ANNUAL REPORT c 2015

Middle School Report Bob De Groot, Middle School Principal

Ontario Christian Middle School continues to be richly blessed! We do not take that for granted and intentionally show our gratitude by being a blessing to others.

Included in this meeting time is an opportunity to address tech integration—a way to stay ahead of the technology curve. Our students each have their own Chromebook, and we want that blessing to be used effectively.

We recently took some time to celebrate those blessThe most important asset we have at Ontario Christian ings—some of the excellent things happening on our Middle School is our teachers. Not only are they excelcampus. We are thankful for the emphasis we placed on lent, buy they also do a fantastic job of holding our our program for reading comprehension (K-8). Our Step Up to Writing curriculum continues to show positive results. Our high standards for academics, and the responsibility and communication that entails from students, parents, and teachers, is a cause for celebration. Our Professional Learning Teams continue their excellent work as they analyze student data and plan for student improvement. Our SIP Math department continues to be one of the best there is! Instead of exchanging Christmas gifts, the middle school students decided to bring in toys to donate to Isaiah’s Rock. As a Christian school, we are blessed to be able to target the whole student and not students accountable for their work and integrity, and just focus on core curriculum. Our PE, Spanish, Comset high standards for our students. Helping our students puter, and Art departments remain strong and effective. meet those expectations is their ministry and desire. Our choir and band concerts are consistently outstanding In addition to our excellent, upbeat, and contemporary examples of our students using their God-given talents chapels each week, our continued support for two Comto glorify Him. The support services we offer, including passion International kids, the service days and projects things like SIP, study skills and math help exploratories, minister to each student where they are in their academic throughout the year, our 8th grade spiritual retreat, our enthusiastic and hard-working Student Council, and our journey. excellent athletic program, there continue to be intenThe Middle School advisement groups that meet four tional efforts made by our students and staff toward betimes per week continue to be the backbone of our ing the blessing to others God wants us to be. A wonderministry to students. In addition to excellent times of ful example took place just recently. Over the Christmas devotions and prayer, this is a time for teachers to conseason, several of our homerooms decided to bring in a nect directly to students and look for ways to advocate donated gift (toy) for Isaiah’s Rock instead of a Christmas for them. “Curriculum” for this time includes our sex ed. gift for each other. units, anti-bullying units, a detailed look at media, a time As you can see, we have been blessed at OCMS! It is exto have some intramurals, a time for guided study… just citing to be part of a team that intentionally ministers to to name a few! the whole kid, the whole time, and with our whole heart. In addition to our advisement groups, time is intentionally God is good! built into our daily schedule for each grade-level group of core teachers to meet and plan. This is a huge blessing and one our excellent teachers do not take for granted.

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Elementary School Report Mike Wiersma, Elementary School Principal

Each year is unique and special at Ontario Christian. Each year God has something new and fresh in store for His school. There are new faculty members, students, and families that are knitted together in His sovereignty to carry out His purpose. The 2014 – 2015 school year is no exception; God has been at work this year blessing our campus with the joyful sounds of children and their families. Below are some stories and examples of the ways that God is being made famous through the dedication of an amazing faculty, staff, students, and families who sacrifice greatly to allow Ontario Christian to walk beside them as we raise God’s children to see His sovereignty in all subject areas. • During morning devotions in a fifth grade classroom this year, the topic focused on various idols of our society today, those things in our lives that often take priority over our time and energy. Through this devotion, one student was convicted that in her life and the lives of her parents there were several gadgets that had become idols. That evening while she observed her parents consumed in their phones and in TV, she spoke up and the Holy Spirit gave her the words to lead her parents in a healthy conversation about putting the gadgets aside and committing more time to family and family devotions. God is made famous through morning devotions. • Our students are working hard and excelling in accelerated reader this year. Last June when we finished the school year, we celebrated a grand total of 42,656 AR points that our students earned. That is a tremendous accomplishment! This year we closed out our semester at a grand total of 24,351.7 points. We are definitely on pace to surpass last year’s total. This is possible through the efforts of the primary grade teachers equipping students with the proper tools in their toolbox to be successful readers, followed up by intermediate teachers encouraging them to use those tools to develop a lifelong love for reading. God is made famous as students use their academic gifts.

God is made famous at the elementary school, says Principal Mike Wiersma, as students learn to see God’s call in their lives.

• As I visit classrooms and watch students outside, I am blessed by the uniqueness of each of our students. Some students gravitate to athletic outlets; others gravitate to music or the arts. It is so fun to see our classrooms beautifully decorated with the artwork from students as we continue to teach to the whole child through a wide variety of additional classes beyond the core academic classes. God is made famous as students develop the talents He has given to them. • We are created to be in relationship with each other. Some of the greatest joys each year are the relationships that develop between students as well as between students and their teachers. One place this is most evident is in our SIP rooms where these dedicated ladies provide the tools and skills to help kids feel successful in their reading and writing. I smile each time I hear the words, “Student’s name, does Mrs. Feikema love you?” The student’s face turns upward in a precious smile to say, “Yes”! God is made famous through loving relationships between students and teachers. We are grateful for God’s faithfulness to Ontario Christian Schools over the past year. He is made famous as kids learn to intersect their faith and learning and to see God’s call on their own lives. Thank you for your commitment to Growing Christian Leaders, and we look forward trusting in God to do immeasurably more than all we could ask or imagine.

Ontario christian schools

OC ANNUAL REPORT c 2015

Preschool Report Jane Reichert, Preschool Director Ontario Christian Preschool is filled with children of God! God has given us five senses to explore God and His creation all around us. SIGHT: We have eyes to see. We, the preschoolers, have a great time seeing our friends each day when coming to school. God created colors and we have fun learning about colors through art, science and everyday play. God has made such a beautiful world around us. We are learning how to take care of our world as our home. HEARING: What a joy to walk through the preschool rooms and hear us all singing praises to God! We performed for our families with the Christmas Program and upcoming Grandparent’s Tea and Spring Program. We love to chitter-chatter, talk and have conservations with each other. In circle time we listen to God’s Word being taught. Our teachers tell us so much about God and our world around us. They do something called “Professional Learning Communities” every Wednesday during nap time to come up with ideas to teach us! TOUCH: This is how we learn. We love to feel and touch everything in the world around us. We learn by doing! We had a fantastic time playing in the snow in January and it was cold! We are learning how to use our hands and fingers to write and make art. What fun! TASTE: Yum! Snack and Lunch! With so many cultures at Ontario Christian Preschool, we are learning what others eat. At Ontario Christian Preschool, students learn to use their Some things do not taste so good, but some are very tasty! But five senses to love God, says Director Jane Reichert. the fun stuff, like what we do when we have our cooking time, have all kinds of different tastes. We have made foods like rainbow cake, the “Fruit of the Spirit” salads, body building snacks like smoothies to mention a few. We so appreciate all the fun snacks and delicious lunches that our parents provide for all our parties and lunches! SMELL: Ew! When we go to the farm, pumpkin patch and the zoo for our field trips, the animals can stink! But God also gave us good smelling things, like flowers to smell too. When we do our cooking projects in the oven, we smell the good smell of cooking applesauce or pumpkins. When we do our Thanksgiving Feast, we have to smell turkey cooking all day long! We also remember the smell of our Mommies perfume when she leaves, but she always comes back to take us home again. God has created us each individually beautiful and in His own image. We are just learning what our bodies can do! God has blessed us so much to praise, glorify and worship Him in every way!

“For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him give the glory forever! Amen.” — Romans 11:36

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Admissions Report by Dianne De Groot, Director of Admissions and Development

“WOW! I would have never guessed this campus was this big and so nice and that OC offered so much to students!!!!“

That’s what I hear often at both campuses when they get past the front gates and when they complete their campus tours. It is very rewarding and encouraging to be a part of this process called Admissions and I am so very thankful for all our OC parents who keep sharing their OC stories to their friends and families…..it is making a difference!!! The Annual Report below is another set of numbers with faces and stories of faith and sometimes pain and a willingness to trust, work hard and let God make it possible for each student represented to be at Ontario Christian School. Let’s all look forward to welcoming whomever He has planned on sending in the 2015-16 school year!!!! In the area of development we also have a set of numbers that represent the efforts of MANY who have worked diligently, served wholeheartedly, and given generously!!! We want to thank all you who have so faithfully attended our events and responded to our: • Annual Fund Drive • Scrip Program • Athletic Programs • Endowment Foundation • Harvest Festival • Jog-a-Thon • OCPA – Annual Fundraiser • Annual Benefit Auction • Annual Golf Tournament • 3 Way Thrift Store And other ways that we seek to raise funds for our vision of “Growing Christian Leaders”. Join us in praising our God for the 12% INCREASE in funds raised over last year!!! Thank you again for your faithful support of Ontario Christian Schools!!!!

Ontario christian schools

OC ANNUAL REPORT c 2015

Admissions Activities for 2014-2015 International Students

New International Students

All 14-15 Registered Students that have Withdrawn

Full-Time Students Not Returning

All FullTime 14- 15 Registered Students (does not include PSP)

All FullTime 13-14 Registered Students (does not include PSP)

Grade

Toured Campus

Went through process and registered *

101

102

117

116

111

106

122

113

Total

181

155

110

1076

1140

* 115 students from new families, the rest are add-ons

Student Ethnicity

Development Data: Fund Development Efforts

2014-2015

Totals for all Fund Development efforts: American Indian.............. < 1% Asian-American...................7% African-American................7% Hispanic or Latino............ 23% Pacific Islander..................... 1% Multi-racial.........................19% White (Caucasian)............ 43%

Grand Total $755,128:  Boosters Club – $89,000  Endowment Foundation – $162,603  2014 Benefit Auction – $155,000  OCPA – $53,000  3 Way Thrift – $170,025  Annual Drive – $125,500

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2014 Ontario Christian High School Athletics Report David Parkes, Assistant Principal and Athletic Director

2014 CIF Team Qualifier Boys Cross Country Girls Cross Country Girls Varsity Tennis Boys Basketball Girls Basketball Boys Soccer Girls Soccer Varsity Baseball Varsity Softball Varsity Golf Boys Varsity Volleyballl

Athletic Program Highlights

Boys Golf Team claims the schools first CIF Golf Championship Chasse’ Sodemann repeats to win the 200 Individual Medley in back to back years Varsity Softball made a deep run into the playoffs apearing in the CIF Semi-Finals Jacob Eichor qualified for the State Finals in boys Cross Country

Boys Golf Boys Volleyball

Assistant Principal and Athletic Director David Parkes

2014 CIF Semi-Finalists Varsity Softball

2014 Ambassador League Champions

2014 CIF Champions - Team

Boys Varsity Basketball

Boys Golf

Girls Junior Varsity Basketball Varsity Golf Boys Varsity Volleyball Boys Junior Varsity Volleyball 2014 Ambassador League Sportsmanship Award Varsity Girls Cross Country 2014 Ambassador League Coach of the Year Mike Fischer - Boys Basketball 2014 Ambassador League Player of the Year Anna Spykstra - Girls Basketball Y-Chuan Hsiang - Boys Golf Chasse’ Sodemann - Boys Swim Jared Chrisman - Boys Track Taylor Holcomb - Girls Track

Ontario christian schools

2014 CIF Champion Individual Swimming Chasse’ Sodemann - 200 Individual Medley 2014 CIF Coach of the Year Kevin Knuston - Boys Golf 2014 Student Athlete of the Year Female - Ashley Vidaurri Male - Brandon Hatfield 2014 Boosters Athlete of the Year Female - Taylor Holcomb Male - Derek Van Leeuwen

All photos courtesy of Nancy Ziebell

Varsity Softball

OC ANNUAL REPORT c 2015

Alumni in Sports

Kaylee Johnson - Citrus College Volleyball

Class of 2014

Matt Nishanian - University of La Verne Football

Travis Booth - Cal Baptist Baseball

T.J. Spykstra - Northwestern College Football

Natalie Dzhandzhapanyan - Navy Soccer

Josh Tampio - Northwestern College Football

Zach Fitch - Trinity Christian College Basketball

Riley Manquen - Cal State San Marcos Baseball

Taylor Holcomb - Biola University Track & Field

Class of 2012

Austin Jones - Biola University Baseball

Cody Catano - University of California Riverside Soccer

Jake Landreth - Creighton Cross Country

William Granberry - University of Biola Swimming

Madison Madewell - Bethel College Tennis

Jordyn McMath - San Diego Christian Baseball

Blake Manning - University of Montana Western Football

Elizabeth Prestia - Hope International Basketball and Volleyball

Robert Mendez - Westmont College Baseball

Tara Struiksma - The Master’s College Soccer

Lexi Mills - Whittier College Volleyball

Jaimee Stutz - York College Track and Field

Cassidy Mount - Cal State Fullerton Soccer

Kali Taeleifi - Holy Names University Basketball

Derek Van Leeuwen - Linfield College Football

Mark Urtz - Humbolt State Football

Class of 2013

Class of 2011

Stephanie Albright - The Master’s College Soccer

Kaitlyn Clark - University of Alabama Gymnastics

Craig Bruinsma - Northwestern College Football Danielle Cupp - Northwestern College Cheer

Class of 2010

Carly DeHoog - University of Washington Volleyball

Manuel Macias - University of La Verne Football

Christian Dirksen - University of Redlands Football

Alyssa Ramos - Cal State San Bernardino Softball

Brad Gaudy - Northwestern College Football

Buddy Traxler - Northern State University Baseball

Jennifer Inge - Northwestern College Soccer

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Technology Report by Ken Yeh, Director of Technology Recently, the YouTube channel Veritasium—known for its engaging videos helping students learn science and technology—released a new video titled, “This Will Revolutionize Education.” In the video, the narrator gives examples of various technologies that tried (unsuccessfully) to “revolutionize” the education landscape—that is, to dramatically change the way learning took place. Common to many of these technology implementations was the idea that students could learn with less need for the involvement of skilled teachers. The point of the video is not that technology has no role in education, but rather to emphasize that it is the involvement of teachers that makes education possible. Some key lines from the video: “The foundation of education is still based on the social interaction between teachers and students.” “The fundamental role of a teacher is not to deliver information. It is to guide the social process of learning. The job of a teacher is to inspire, to challenge, to excite their students to want to learn.” “And making a learner think seems best achieved in a social environment, with other learners and a caring teacher.”

Technology Director Ken Yeh talks about how technology can be a meaningful tool for OC students.

A core purpose of Ontario Christian’s Innovations for Learning Initiative has always been to enhance the learning relationship between students and teachers, and as we complete our third year of the program we continue to recognize that the actual technologies used in the classrooms are just a minor part of its success. The technology we use is important only insofar as it enhances the social process of learning between teachers and students. Take away all the hardware and we would still have the most important element for the education of our students: our innovative and nurturing faculty.

Technology does not take the place of caring and knowledgeable teachers, it enables teachers to convey their care and their knowledge to students in a greater variety of effective ways. Google Apps for Education does not make students better writers, but when a teacher uses the collaborative features of GAFE to come alongside a student and provide helpful guidance during the actual process of writing, then the student is empowered to become a better writer. Technology can extend the social learning environment between teachers and students beyond the walls and times of the classroom setting. Students can continue to wrestle with challenging concepts via discussion threads in Google Classroom. Teachers can ask guiding questions that cause students to dig deeper when they are at home through lessons created through TED-Ed. Technology is but a tool, and it is only when wielded by skilled teachers, like the ones at Ontario Christian Schools, who love their students and love their role as guides and mentors, that it becomes a meaningful tool for innovative learning.

Ontario christian schools

OC ANNUAL REPORT c 2015

Front Row (L to R): Gary Voortman, Marc de Falkenberg, Alan Bos, Dave Kooiman. Back Row (L to R): Kim Fikse, Brent Westra, Brad Verhoeven, Dave De Koekkoek, Bill De Jong. Not Pictured: Lisa Vander Meulen, Marty Van Leeuwen.

Current Board Of Trustees Year of Name Retirement Church *Alan Bos

2015

First Chino URC

Marc de Falkenberg

2017 CrossPoint CRC

Bill De Jong

2016 CrossPoint CRC

*Kim Fiske

2015 CrossPoint CRC

Dave De Koekkoek

2016 CrossPoint CRC

Dave Kooiman

2017

The Bridge RCA

*Marty Van Leeuwen

2015

The Bridge RCA

Lisa Vander Meulen

2017

The Bridge RCA

*Brad Verhoeven

2015 CrossPoint CRC

Gary Voortman

2017 CrossPoint CRC

Brent Westra

2017 CrossPoint CRC

*=Retiring

The Board of Trustees are all members of churches with a Reformed perspective. Ontario Christian School was founded by Reformed churches and continues to provide for the future of the organization by selecting board members from these churches. The Board of Trustees is pleased that Ontario Christian has a student body that comes from over 200 churches. It is a tremendous blessing to have such a wonderful diversity of Christians involved in the life of Ontario Christian. We are very appreciative of the time and wisdom that you all have invested and would like to thank you for all the dedication and years of service to Ontario Christian Schools.

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2015 Board Of Trustees Nominees Alan Bos

Garett Bruinsma Name: Alan Bos

Name: Garett Bruinsma

Spouse: Tina

Spouse: Shelly

Children: Natalie (9th Grade)

Children:

Education background:

Daryl (‘11), Craig (‘13), Renae (‘18), Lee (6th Grade)

Graduated from Ontario Christian School; B.A. from Dordt College; M.B.A. from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.

Job position: Business Owner/

Operator Church Membership: Crosspoint CRC

Job position and company: Director of Finance for

Salem Christian Homes, Inc.

Church Involvement: I have served as both a deacon

Church membership: First Chino United Reformed

and an elder, facilitated a small group, and was a youth leader for the High School Group.

Church OCS involvement: I served on the board for one term Church involvement: Served as a Deacon and Trea-

(05-08) and have coached both football and basketball at the middle school.

surer for Church Council and participated on evangelism, hospitality, finance, and executive committees.

Perspective on Christian education and OCS: OCS Involvement: Currently serving as a board member

Ontario Christian has been a blessing to our family. As an alumnus and a parent of two graduates, my wife and I have seen the value of Ontario Christian positively impacting the lives of our children. The faculty and staff at Ontario Christian are second to none. So many talented and gifted teachers have had a part in shaping the lives of our children both academically and spiritually. As a parent, our influence in our children lives shrinks as they get older. They are influenced more and more by others. The community of Ontario Christian, including faculty, staff, students and other parents provides us with a superior environment to raise our children in. There is a balance of Christian home, Christian church, and Christian school in their lives.

for OCS in both Finance & Executive committees for over 5 years. Financially supporting and praying for OCS while actively participating in fundraising and school events. Other experiences and qualifications: Over 25

years of financial experience with various types of (for profit and non-profit) organizations. Perspective on Christian education and OCS:

I believe that educating the youth with a proper Christian worldview, character, and lifestyle begins at the home and is supported by the Christian community. The parent’s active participation and cooperation with Christian teachers and leaders in both church and school is essential to the educational development (of both the faith in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ and vocational skills) of a young believer to glorify God in all aspects of life. OCS emphasis on Growing Christian Leaders from a Reformed Christian perspective plays a vital role in supporting the commitment of parents to train and educate their children to acknowledge and glorify God in every aspect of His creation.

Christian education is expensive; it’s a sacrifice and commitment we make. Ontario Christian has a history of providing a Christian, all-inclusive education at an attainable tuition rate. Safeguarding this for future generations is paramount while still moving forward and improving. Realizing this is possible by a balance of proper planning, discussion, and compromise.

Ontario Christian School ASSOCIATION

MEETING march

5, 2015

p.m.

Ontario christian schools

albers

chapel

OC ANNUAL REPORT c 2015

Christine Koontz

Keri Whitaker Name: Christine Koontz

Name: Keri Whitaker

Spouse: John

Spouse: Mark

Children:

Nathaniel (4th Grade), Simon (3rd Grade), and Josie (1st Grade) Education background:

Ranae (5th grade) and Terra (4th grade) Education background:

Graduated from Ontario Christian in 1994, Calvin College (Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work), Loyola University Chicago (Master’s Degree in Social Work)

A bachelor’s degree in liberal studies and a K-12 multi-subject California teaching credential and a master’s degree in educational counseling with a pupil personnel services credential.

Job position: Owner of an e-commerce business &

Job position:

retail store in Chino Hills Church Membership: Crosspoint CRC Church Involvement: I teach in our “King’s kids”,

Adjunct Professor at Providence Christian College in Pasadena teaching Health and Physical Education Church Membership: CrossPoint CRC

specifically the 1st graders, and adore them!

Church Involvement: Care Ministry team.

OCS involvement: I have greatly enjoyed my involve-

OCS involvement: Coaching the girls’ cross

ment with Harvest Festival planning this past year. Perspective on Christian education and OCS:

I believe Christian education is a gift we can give our children that goes beyond academics. But, at the same time, academics are very important. I feel OCS offers both—a great academic education and an understanding of how the Bible is applied to life. I feel the teachers at OCS have been incredibly influential on my children. Providing an environment that is in line with what the Bible teaches and having teachers who live this and are examples to our children is critical in forming who they will become. They will see the world and sin, even in a Christian school, but fostering discernment and a solid base is the goal. I think OCS strives to do this and they do it very well.

country team Perspective on Christian education and OCS:

I have combined the philosophy of both OC and Providence in regards to the importance of a Christian education. I believe that the family, church, school and community grow Christian leaders by being out in the world sharing God’s love.

Marty Van Leeuwen Name: Marty Van Leeuwen

Job position: Owner/Partner of Chino Valley

Spouse: Anna

Dairy; Owner/Partner Mid-Hill Golf Center and UHaul

Children:

Church Membership: The Bridge

Derek (graduated from OC in 2014 and freshman at Linfield College in McMinneville, OR) and Case (3rd grade)

OCS involvement: OC Board Member

Education background:

graduated from OC in 1989; attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Perspective on Christian education and OCS:

I love being a part of the OC Family. OC provides great teachers that live out Christ to our children. I love the foundation that it gives our children as they start their adult lives.

nominee list, continued on next page -->

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nominees list, continued from previous page

Brad Verhoeven Name: Brad Verhoeven

Church involvement: Served as an elder; volunteers

for Food for Life and Hands of Mercy. Spouse: Beth Perspective on Christian education and OCS: Children: Arnie (’11), Adam (’15),

and Abby (8th grade) Education background:

Graduated from Bonita High School; degree in business administration from Cal Poly Pomona. Job position and company: Investor.

Christian school education remains a cornerstone in the foundation of our children’s understanding of themselves, their creator, and the Lord’s world in which they live. An education that through the teachers and curriculum helps equip our children with a Christ-centered worldview, so that they can further their relationship with the Lord and live an abundant life—life of continued growth and discipleship that glorifies the Lord with a lifetime of service to His Kingdom.

Church membership: CrossPoint CRC

ASSOCIATION MEETING MINUTES March 4, 2014

I. Call to order: Brad Verhoeven, board president II. Opening Devotions and Prayer: Brenda Thompson, secretary III. Minutes from 2013 Annual Association Meeting: Brenda Thompson Minutes approved. IV. Brad Verhoeven Introduced the Board Nominees for 2014-2017: Marc de Falkenberg, Lisa Vander Meulen, Gary Voortman, and Brent Westra (returning board member) - Board members were confirmed and announced on the OC Website the following day.

Ontario christian schools

V. Brad Verhoeven thanked retiring Board members, Lynnie Haringa, Brenda Thompson, Jim Riezebos and Steve Laidlaw. VI. Ryan Groen gave the State of the School Address and answered questions received by the Association. VII. Brent Westra, board treasurer presented the 2014-2015 Budget and answered questions. Budget approved. VIII. Brad Verhoeven closed in prayer.

OC ANNUAL REPORT c 2015

Budget Report—Enrollment Detail 1090

1063

1145

1165

1109

1235

1351

1325

1410

1414

1314

1294

1236

1210

1202

1100

1045

1010

890

850

814

900

839

enrollment

1200

930

1500

1200

Ellie Begley, Business Manager

600

2014 revised

Ellie Begley

2015 proposed

2014 proposed

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2005

2006

2004

2003

2002

2001

1999

2000

1998

1997

1996

1995

1993

1994

1992

300

tuition income

cost per student

budgeted students

year

Approved 2014–2015

Revised 2014–2015

Proposed 2015–2016

Difference

Full-time Kindergarten

Part-time Kindergarten

Primary

414

388

(26)

Middle School

191

190

178

(12)

High School

462

441

437

(4)

Total students

1,149

1,090

1,063

(86)

Full-time Kindergarten

6,950

7,332

382

Part-time Kindergarten

5,295

5,586

291

Primary

7,425

7,833

408

Middle School

8,195

8,646

451

High School

9,595

10,123

528

Full-time Kindergarten

417,000

229,350

293,280

63,930

Part-time Kindergarten

116,490

63,540

111,720

48,180

Primary

3,073,950

3,039,204

(34,746)

Middle School

1,565,245

1,557,050

1,538,988

(18,062)

High School

4,432,890

4,231,395

4,423,751

192,356

total tuition incomE

9,605,575

9,155,285

9,406,943

251,658

Previous years approved & revised budget vs. proposed budget

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Budget Report—Income and Expenses Approved 2014–2015

Income

Tuition

expenses

9,605,575

9,155,285

Proposed 2015–2016 $

Difference

9,406,943

251,658

International Student income

160,000

152,000

200,000

48,000

PSP education

14,400

16,800

On-Line education

60,000

50,000

(10,000)

Pre-School Income

610,000

630,000

20,000

Daycare Income

135,000

145,000

10,000

Registration Fees

190,000

Technology Fee

117,900

88,450

(29,450)

Use of Grounds

145,000

Int'l Student Summer Program

25,000

Cell Tower Income

98,000

101,000

3,000

3-Way Thrift Store

145,000

Endowment Foundation

145,000

150,000

5,000

Church Support

6,000

4,500

(1,500)

Annual Drive

150,000

Spring Auction Income

80,000

140,000

50,000

(90,000)

Fine Arts Club Income

5,000

Miscellaneous

38,000

Transfers from other accounts

165,000

(165,000)

Tuition Assistance

(250,000)

(256,750)

(260,000)

(3,250)

Less Multiple Child Discount

(80,000)

(69,000)

(75,000)

(6,000)

Total Income

$ 11,399,875

$ 11,173,235

$ 11,205,693

$ 32,458

Instructional

6,189,207

6,115,712

6,060,560

(55,152)

Technology

641,871

622,666

492,763

(129,903)

Administration

1,138,617

1,141,875

1,172,711

30,836

Transportation

679,550

648,232

645,495

(2,737)

Buildings & Equipment

1,071,569

981,740

1,103,117

121,377

Development / Promotion

338,029

336,504

322,683

(13,821)

Insurance

106,543

109,038

2,495

Professional Growth

67,000

52,500

53,000

500

Other Operational

23,350

24,350

24,750

400

Operating Debt & Write-Off

354,163

Pre-School Operation

603,215

601,642

632,980

31,338

Daycare Operation

127,954

127,616

140,776

13,160

PSP / On-Line

58,808

59,692

51,902

(7,790)

Emergency Fund

41,755

Total Expenses

$ 11,399,875

$ 11,173,235

$ 11,205,693

$ 32,458

NET

Revised 2014–2015

Ontario christian schools

OC ANNUAL REPORT c 2015

Budget Reportâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Chart of Expenses The chart below depicts how much each expense represents, on a percentage basis, of the total budget proposed for 2015-2016.

Other (insurance, other operational, debt)

Promotion, development, professional growth

3% Transportation (salaries & benefits, gas, repairs, bus replacement)

6% Pre-School & Daycare (salaries, benefits, supplies, rent)

7% Building, grounds & equipment (maintenance salaries, utilities, repairs, summer renovations, facilities, maintenance)

Instructional (salaries, benefits, supplies, athletics)

55%

10%

Administration (salaries & benefits, office expenses, accounting)

10% Technology

knightline

WINTER 2015

Save The Date!

Boosters Club

2 2 nd A N N U A L

Keeping Pace with Your OC Boosters Club by Bernie Gabrielse, Boosters President Have you seen those beautiful newly surfaced basketball courts, two at the middle school, and one at the high school? These were funded by our Boosters Club. These enhancements to our athletic facilities benefit students for many years to come.

GOLF CLASSIC OC BOOSTERS

May 29, 2015 During the summer, we will again be working on our athletic program and our school directory; information will be coming out about that in a few months. These are our two main fund raisers for the year, along with selling our school’s merchandise through our Booster’s Bin, selling Christmas trees, and having our Labor Day Pancake Breakfast. If you can help out with any of these, feel free to contact a Boosters Club member. If you love OC athletics, if you love seeing your child involved in athletics, if you see the value of being active in sports for him or her, then our Boosters Club is the place for you. Our next meeting is February 23, at 7:00 p.m. in the high school library. As a club, we have a lot of fun, make some great friends, and work hard to further our school. If you think that is something that you, too, could enjoy, please plan to join us; we would love to have you. For more information, please go to the school’s new web site and look under athletics and then Boosters Club, or simply talk to one of our members. Check out the Boosters Club’s new web page at www.ocschools.org/athletics/boosters-club/

In 2014, we raised quite a bit, but in 2015, we want to top the $100,000 mark in terms of funds raised. This money will in turn be used to support and enhance our school’s athletic program. To reach our goal, we will need more help and more people involved, so we are asking you if you would consider joining us. One way you can get involved is through the Annual OC Golf Tournament. We just kicked off our 22nd Annual Golf Committee meetings as we begin in earnest our plans for another successful golf tournament that will be held on May 29, 2015, at the Los Serranos Golf Course. Last year we had our most successful tournament to date, and we are hoping to improve on that. Please circle this date on your calendar, and try to join us for a day of fun and golfing. We are excited to again have our school’s golf coach help lead our golf tournament, Mr. Kevin Knutson. We look forward to another great year.

Ontario christian schools

19th Annual Benefit

Auction Dinner friday

Friday, April 24, 2015

Los Serranos Country Club 15656 Yorba Avenue chino hills, ca 91709 Look for your invitation in March.

Proceeds from this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s auction will benefit our investment in security systems on both OC campuses.

We are currently accepting donations of items for the Silent Auction and Live Auction. If you or a business associate would like to donate an item(s) or donate money and have the auction committee purchase some items, please contact Nicole DeVries at 909-983-4644 ext. 135 or email her at ndevries@ocschools.org by April 3.

Suggested items to donate are: indoor and outdoor decorations, home-made items, trips, cabins, tools, barbecue or grilling items, toys, games, baby items, jewelry, kitchen items, etc.

All donations are appreciated!

knightline

WINTER 2015 winter

OC ANNUAL REPORT c 2015

OCS Foundation Thoughtful and loving friends who wish to family, may give gifts of remembrance to the Ontario Christian School Foundation. Those honored by such gifts at the commemoration of a wedding, birth, anniversary, retirement, or other events will be notified by an appro-

Yes! Yes! ___________________________________ wants to be a Foundation Builder (your name here)

1. $____________ in memory of _______________________________________

priate note as will the family of those honored

2. $____________ in celebration of _____________________________________

in death. The name of the person remembered

3. $____________ in support of Christian education

will be listed in our newsletter unless request-

Ontario Christian Schools thanks YOU for your support!

ed otherwise. The amount of the gift is kept confidential and is tax deductible.

The Ontario Christian Foundation gratefully acknowledges all gifts received the past quarter: Al DeVries

Rev. Case Admiraal

Mr. & Mrs. Don Agema

Ms. Barbara J. Mitchell

Mr. & Mrs. Marvin Berkompas

Mr. & Mrs. Paul Mulder

Mr. & Mrs. Bob Bryant

Mr. & Mrs. Al Scheenstra

Leslie Schoneveld

Ms. Alicia M. Buttera

Ms. Dolores Schoneveld

Mrs. Dolores Schoneveld

Mr. & Mrs. Phil DeGroot

Mr. & Mrs. Glen Schoolmeester

Mrs. Al De Vries

Mr. Lester Schoolmeester

Elaine Bloemhof Schakel

Mr. & Mrs. Leroy De Vries

Mr. & Mrs. Don Sevier

Mr. Leo Schakel

Ms. Helen Destigter

Mr. Richard Slegers

Ms. Sandra Faber

Mr. & Mrs. Arwin Spronk

Nancy Heuker

Mr. & Mrs. Herman Fransen

Mr. & Mrs. Ed Talen

Miss Sheryl Meendering

Mr. & Mrs. George Groen

Mr. & Mrs. Bernard te Velde

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Hulstein

Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Teunissen, Sr.

Swannie TeVelde

Mr. & Mrs. Don Klein

Mr. & Mrs. John Tjaarda

Mr. & Mrs. James De Groot

Mr. & Mrs. Fred Koelewyn

Mrs. Annie Troost

Dr. & Mrs. Fred Koning

Mr. & Mrs. Bill Volbeda

Elmer Meendering

Mr. & Mrs. David Ligtenberg

Dr. & Mrs. Gary Voorman

Mrs. Betty Meendering

Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Weerstra

Miss Sheryl Meendering

Mr. & Mrs. David Yâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Deen

Tesse Jean Slegers Mr. John Anker

Mr. & Mrs. John G. Van Dyk

Mr. & Mrs. Roger Bruxvoort

Mr. & Mrs. Bill Van Leeuwen

Mr. & Mrs. Phil DeGroot

Ontario christian schools

Mr. & Mrs. Ed Talen

Foundation Builder

honor either living or departed friends and

OC ANNUAL REPORT c 2015

Ontario Christian marketplace

embroidery/screening

financial services

moving Services

Plain Jane Promotions

David De Koekkoek CFP, EA

Residential & Business – Local & Long Distance Moving – Serving All the Inland Empire

Embroidery & Screenprint - est. 1988 4852 Francis Ave. Chino, CA 91710 plainjaneembroidery@verizon.net

909-627-5457

Tax and Retirement Services (909) 467-5433

3350 Shelby St. Ste. 200 Ontario, CA 91761 909-944-2525 Fax: 909-945-5371 Sharon@morfflaw.com

Real Estate Brent Westra Real Estate/Mortgage Broker Property Management (909) 519-1328 Sandy DuBoise-Real Estate Agent (909) 947-2777

Serna’s Relocation Systems, Inc. 800-590-5006 Agent for Mayflower Transit, Inc.

Home Services

Francisco C. Enverga, D.D.S.

J & T De Vries Pest Control

General & Cosmetic Dentistry

Residential · Commercial · Landscape · AGI

909-923-7881 Sharon Morff Attorney at Law

Competitive Rates • Trade Show & Exhibits • Electronic Equipment • Containerized Storage Expert Packing & Crating • Special Care for Valuables & Antiques • Reliable & Timely Do-it-Yourself Containers • Ask for Felipe

CAL T-179172 • US DOT# 125563 I.C.C. No. MC2934

Health Services

Professional Services

Move With a Name You Know!

2508 S. Grove Ave. • Ontario, CA 91761

construction Services

(909) 988-9680 Flies · Spiders · Ants · Roaches Fleas · Rodents · Birds · Weeds

D & D Contractors Inc.

Bouma A/C & Heating CompCare Medical Group Chino Hills Pediatric/Adult/Geriatric & Sports Medicine Board Certified Family Medicine Providers

Alphonso Benton, M.D. Cynthia Moreno, D.O. 15944 Los Serranos Country Club Dr. Suite 110, Chino Hills, CA 91709

909-606-8767 Guaranteed same day appointments. Accept most insurances Visit www.compcaremedicalgroup.com for info

Family owned & operated Over 25 years experience www.sernas.net

David Gonzalez Marin

Jim Riezebos Service & Installation 12403 Central Ave. #343 Chino, CA 91710 (909) 673-1075 • Fax: (909) 673-1076

dgonmarin43@gmail.com

P: 951-415-4066 F:909-983-6829 Home Remodeling, Kitchen & Bathroom Upgrades State License B#966076

Support the O.C. Marketplace Contact Dianne De Groot to place your ad 909-983-4644 ext. 131

Ontario Christian Receives

$145,000

3 Way Thrift has distributed annually an average of $145,000 in the last 5 years to Ontario Christian. The over 1.4 million dollars was made possible thanks to families & friends of OC donating their clothes and other household items to 3 Way Thrift. Please drop-off used items at either school (use the collection boxes pictured above) or at 3-Way Thrift.

www.3waythrift.org

knightline

WINTER 2015

931 W. Philadelphia Street Ontario, CA 91762

non-profit org. U.S. postage PAID Chino, CA permit 135

Current Resident or

ocschools.org

MArch, 2015

1 2 3 (4) 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 APRIL, 2015

1 2 (3) 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 (16) (17) 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

3 4 9 11 12 13 17 26-28 30

Association Meeting 7:00 PM Half Day - Teacher in Service HS Band/Choir Spring Concert 7:00 PM Jr. K Grandparents Day 9:45 AM Preschool Grandparents Tea 9:00 AM ES Green & Gold Day 5th-8th Grade Band/Choir Concert 7:00 PM High School Play 7:00 PM Boosters Meeting 7:00 PM

3 3 6 – 10 16 17 17 22 24 27

Half Day K-8 Grandparents Day 9:00 AM CrossPoint Church No School - Easter Break Half Day - ES & MS only Parent/Teacher Conference No School - ES & MS only Parent/Teacher Conference Half Day - High School Fine Arts Festival Auction 5:00 PM Los Serranos Country Club Boosters Meeting 7:00 PM HS Library

6 11-14 18 25 28 29

Half Day–Teacher in Service 1st-4th Spring Concerts Boosters Meeting No School–Memorial Day HS Talent Show Boosters Golf Tournament

1 2 3 5 8 9 10 22 29

5th-12th Grade Band Concert 7:00 PM 7th-12th Grade Choir Concert 7:00 PM Preschool Open House 6:00 PM Senior Awards Night 6:00 PM Kindergarten Graduation 7:00 PM Middle School Graduation 6:00 PM Half Day–High School Graduation 6:00 PM HS Summer School Begins Boosters Meeting 7:00 PM

HS Chapel Classroom Multi-Purpose Room HS Athletic Fields HS Chapel HS Chapel HS Library

May, 2015

1 2 3 4 5 (6) 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 June, 2015

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 (10) 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

7:00 pm 7:00 pm

HS Chapel HS Library

7:00 pm

HS Chapel Los Serranos Country Club

HS Chapel HS Chapel HS Chapel HS Chapel Athletic Statdium Athletic Statdium HS Library

Please note: The Paper Drive is on the first weekend of every odd month. Please bundle up your papers and place them in the bin on the east end of the high school campus’ front parking lot. Proceeds go towards the high school science department.