OC Knightline - Summer 2015 by Ontario Christian Schools

volume 10 no.3 summer 2015

Knightline A publication of the Ontario Christian Schools

in this issue q Goodbye, Ryan! 03 q OC Teachers Rock! 06â&#x20AC;&#x201C;07 q 2015 GRADUATES 14

Graduation 2015 Congratulations to the Class of 2015 for Receiving over $4 Million in Scholorships

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

Contact Information

KnightLine

A publication of the Ontario Christian Schools

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

Administration

in this issue q Goodbye, Ryan!

q Introducing Dr. Ken Bootsma

q OC Teachers Rock!

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

Dr. Ken Bootsma Mr. Tim Hoekstra Mr. David Parkes Mr. Bob DeGroot Mr. Mike Wiersma Mrs. Jane Reichert Mrs. Nancy Geertsma Mrs. Chanin Zaragoza Ms. Regina Wang Mr. Ken Yeh

Board of Trustees

q Surprised by Hope

q Dianne De Groot - A Lasting Legacy

q Is Jesus Really Lord Over All?

q 8th grade & HS Graduation

q HS Graduates

q School Events - Photo Galleries

16-29

q Farewell Good and Faithful Servants 20 q OC Foundation

q Boosters Golf Tournament

q Staff Spotlight: Amber Mckee

q Alumni Spotlight: Ryan De koekkoek q Market Place

Inside Back Cover

Alan Bos Garett Bruinsma Marc de Falkenburg William De Jong Dave De Koekkoek David Kooiman Christine Koontz

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

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

931 West Philadelphia Street Ontario CA 91762-6218

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

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Credits Project Coordinator Design Printing

Regina Wang Central Creative Kindred Corporation

by Regina Wang, Director of Marketing In 2011, when Ryan Groen accepted the position of superintendent at Ontario Christian, he and his family immediately immersed themselves in the community. Erin, his wife, joined a Bible study with other OC families. Their children Elise and William entered second grade and Pre-K respectively, making new friends and working hard to reach their Accelerated Reader goals. The Groens loved and enjoyed every moment of being a part of the OC community. In the midst of adjusting to California, Ryan did not waste any time to launch several projects that proved crucial to the school. He spearheaded the Innovations for Learning Initiative after seeing the need to offer the best technological resources to OC students. The initiative was carefully planned and rolled out in several phases over the course of four years. By 2015, every 7-12 grader had a personal portal for learning that equipped them with skills and knowledge for becoming the next generation of Christian leaders. Ryan also knew that it requires a discerning heart to use technology for God’s glory. He started the Christian Character Trait Awards at the elementary and middle school levels so that a desire to emulate Christ would be instilled and cultivated in students. Mike Wiersma, elementary school principal, saw the fruit of this project. He has seen more and more parents come on campus to celebrate with their children as they received awards for demonstrating Christ-like character. The awards, he said, tell parents that the school faculty and staff are committed to working with them to form Christian behavior in their children. “Ryan was very purposeful in articulating that we can’t carry out these fruits to earn our salvation, but out of gratitude for

our salvation we do our best to demonstrate these Christian character traits,” he said. “To bless our students at the end of school with one of these traits is a great thing to watch both as an administrator and a father myself.”

After four years of serving as superintendent at Ontario Christian, Ryan Groen has accepted the head of school position at an international Christian school in Jakarta, Indonesia. We wish him well. We would also like to thank him for his many accomplishments here at OC.

Featured Article

OC Teachers Rock! Many OC alumni have fond memories of their teachers; some of them have even become teachers themselves. We decided to interview those who are now teaching about how their OC teachers have influenced and inspired them.

Due to space limitation, we apologize for not including all the interviews, particularly the ones of the alumni who are teaching at OC. Theirs shall be included in a future edition. Stay tuned.

by Regina Wang, Director of Marketing Chad Fakkema (’04) teaches 8th grade history at Lynden Christian Schools in Lynden, WA.

Kristen Le (’06) teaches 4th grade in ReNEW Schools in New Orleans, LA.

“If I had to choose one teacher, I’d choose Mr. Dave Slager. It was his first or second year teaching, and he was laid back and fun. He had that passion and could connect to the students. We went on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic in 2002 together. It was a good time.

“My 8th grade teacher, Miss Michelle Wynia, was the first person to really show me to push for academic excellence. She cared a lot about students. I enjoyed her class, and I learned more from that one year than any other years in my academic career.

“Trivia 1: I was voted mostly likely to be an OC teacher with Angela See. It's funny because we’re both teachers now. “Trivia 2: My dad, Len Fakkema, was an OC teacher. He treated me just like everyone else.”

“I’d always wanted to be a teacher. My teachers at OC absolutely encouraged it. When I was in 3rd grade, my teacher let me stay after school to grade papers. All of my high school teachers joked that in four years I’ll come back and teach here. They all encouraged, supported, and helped me with my dreams.”

Megan Bowles (’05) teaches 2nd grade at Saint Mark’s School in Altadena, CA.

Hannah Alger (’08) teaches 6th grade science at Friona Junior High in Friona, TX.

“Mrs. Tami Van Nieuwenhuyzen taught PE and health. She was very aware of what teenagers were going through. I could always go to her with any questions.

“I loved Miss Kristen Hoekstra, Mr. Len Fakkema, Mr. Nathan Kok, and Mr. Ben Dykhouse. In Mr. Fakkema’s history class, we once mummified meat — it was the coolest thing that I will always remember. It was hands-on learning and I’ve really tried to take that into my classroom.

“I knew I wanted to teach at a private school after going to OC. I liked the community feel of it. OC teachers are there to teach and help you in life; they can be real people and be passionate about their subjects.” Laurin (Hubbell) Brainard (graduated from OCMS in 2002) teaches 1st grade in Heninger Elementary School in Santa Ana, CA. “My favorite teacher would be Miss Michelle Wynia. She helped cultivate a love for reading in me. I also remember Mrs. Judy Hoekstra who was my 7th grade homeroom teacher. She was very welcoming. I was homeschooled most of my earlier years. It was frightening going to middle school all day. I just remember the way she guided everyone through middle school was very helpful.”

Ontario christian schools

“One of the challenges of working in a public school is that I have to be more reserved about my faith. That’s one thing I really appreciate about going to OC — we got to pray and praise God and expressed our belief — what a true blessing!” Brynn (Hewitt) Sanderlin (’07) teaches math at Carlsbad High School in Carlsbad, CA. “The fact I wanted to teach is because I had a positive experience at OC. I felt successful and I wanted to help other students feel like that. I decided to teach math because of Miss Sara Admiraal — I had so much fun in her class. She was funny and upbeat; she gave me a positive experience in math.”

Janie (Van Ryn) Washburn (’04) teaches chemistry at Hemet High School in Hemet, CA. “Mr. Nelson Miedema was my first science teacher at the high school. I took earth science as an elective, and he really got me interested in science, and we talked about possible careers that I could do in the science field.” Carolyn (Zwart) Kamstra (’89) teaches Kindergarten at Valley Christian Schools in Cerritos, CA. “I had some great teachers who made me enjoy learning, such as Mr. Tim Hoekstra, who taught me geometry and precalculus. Mr. Russ Fuller, who taught me world history and government, always started the class with a story.” Megan Englebrecht (’09) teaches middle school science for Teach for America in Phoenix, AZ. “One of my absolute favorite teachers to this day is Mr. Nathan Kok. I was in his first ever homeroom class in the 7th grade. He loved our class so much that he decided to move to high school when we did too! I loved having him as a teacher for six years. I learned an unbelievable amount from him. He was the best teacher who instilled a love for learning in me! I definitely strive to be like him in my own classroom. I remember when he poured soda on his water repellant pants, when his tooth cracked from chewing a pen, and the AP government movie nights. “Another teacher that left a deep impression on me was Mrs. Lisa Valencia, she was an outstanding person and role model who always made sure we were cared for. She was like a second mom who went above and beyond in the classroom and ASB. I loved going to her office to check in whenever I needed anything. “Miss Teresa Teune is a phenomenal teacher who has taught my sister, brother, and me. She is someone that makes learning SO FUN. She definitely influenced me to become a teacher because she modeled excellence in her classroom. She established lasting relationships with her students and families. She also displayed an outstanding commitment to God, which she carried out in her teaching.” Tera de Falkenberg (’91) works in the Etiwanda School District as a speech-language pathologist and as head teacher at Windrows Elementary School in Etiwanda, CA. “I still have the egg Christmas tree ornament that we made in Miss Sherry Meendering's 2nd grade class. In 3rd grade, Mrs.

Lana Oosterhouse was my teacher with the most beautiful handwriting I had ever seen, with my 6th grade teacher, Mr. Rick Jasper's, a close second! I learned to love reading when Miss Judy Besteman taught me in 4th grade. In high school, I enjoyed playing soccer with Tom Cornell as my coach all four years. I enjoyed learning how to type in Mr. Gary Senti's class. He always played the radio while we practiced our skills. I especially enjoyed Mr. Nelson Meidema's classes, mostly biology, chemistry, and other science classes. His instruction was often paired with experiments and other active types of learning. My work preparation and training incorporates many science classes, so his teaching most likely greatly affected my profession of choice. I enjoyed learning math from Mr. Tim Hoekstra and Mr. Jerry De Witt. Mrs. Elgene Van Dyk taught me better ways of writing and relaying information and thoughts in writing.” Henry Huisken (’98) teaches art at Ontario Christian High School (you can see him in background photo). “Mr. Tom Hamming. He would often say, ‘I’m feeling a little siso,’ which was code for 5150/crazy. Another great line was ‘I checked the obituaries this morning before I came to school. I had to make sure I wasn't in them.’ “Mrs. Elgene Van Dyk. She would come to school in a full Maleficent costume on October 31, and I'm sure this was not very appreciated by some of the more conservative viewpoints on campus. We thought she was hilarious. “Mr. Nelson Miedema. I started doing a catch phrase in my classes because every week he would tell us, ‘You're a lovely bunch of coconuts-now be careful it's a jungle out there." “Mr. Robert Juarez. He was/is so cool. He would send a few students from his morning classes on ‘top secret mission’ trips to the donut store during class time! He would have us do ‘earthquakes’/secretly surround the next-door portable classroom and bang on the walls and windows to scare the new Spanish teacher. He had a bunch of good analogies for reformed doctrine based on Superman and Star Wars. “A weird coincidence was that Mrs. Bev Tinklenberg told me when I was a sophomore or junior in her art classes that she would retire when I wanted to start teaching art for OC. I'm sure she probably told that to a bunch of students over the years, but for me it came true, and I am incredibly blessed that it did. When I was going through some of her old storage spaces, I found some of my old projects; she had saved some of my projects for over 12 years. It was really surprising and cool to find them.” q

knightline knightline spring/summer summer 2013 2015

Service Learning Report

Surprised by Hope Every year a group of Ontario Christian students travels to Jackson, Mississippi, to work with the marginalized community there. This year, many of them returned with their eyes opened and hearts aflame for God. These are their testimonies.

by Regina Wang, Director of Marketing

Twelve OC students spent their Easter break working with the Spencer Perkins Foundation in Jackson, Mississippi. Amanda McGuire (’15): An Altered Vision Working as a part-time bookkeeper, Amanda McGuire knew she liked numbers and planned to major in business at Cal State Fullerton. Her trip to Jackson, however, altered her vision for the future. Sitting in a room with her teammates, Amanda heard a testimony of a businesswoman who opened the first new business in Jackson in a long time. A Jackson native, she was one of the few that attended and graduated from college. She could have easily gotten a corporate job, but a call from

Ontario christian schools

God beckoned her to move back to her hometown to start a business. She opened the Koinonia Cafe House (koinonia is Greek for “fellowship”) to seek the welfare of the city. Her bold move had already attracted the attention of a hotel to invest in the city.

Their testimonies helped Amanda see that it was easy for her to limit what God could do by having her own idea of what the future should look like. In both Dr. Perkins’ and the businesswoman’s case, they trusted God with their lives.

This woman’s faithfulness to God shook Amanda—so often she saw other people going into business with the sole purpose of making money. Then she was stunned when she heard John Perkins’ story, who left his job in California to move back to Jackson in 1960, after receiving God’s call to work toward racial reconciliation.

“The trip made me see how big and powerful God is,” she says. “I want to be like them to allow God to use me to bless others.” When Amanda takes her first business class in college this fall, she knows she will open her arms to anything God has in store for her.

Lauryn Haringa (’16): Leading a Life of Service The first sight of Jackson haunted Lauryn Haringa: big, gorgeous buildings with no people. Two out of five houses in the city were abandoned. Then she learned that poverty in Jackson was tainted with racial tension. In 1970, whites accounted for 70% of the population, but by 2010, whites comprised 18%, compared to close to 80% of blacks. This rapid departure of whites from the community, known as white flight, means the loss of jobs and money for all who remain. In the midst of economic bleakness, Lauryn saw rays of hope that John Perkins and the Spencer Perkins Center represent in Jackson. Their after-school program, summer camp, and mentoring program provide the youth stability, safety, and opportunities. She was moved to hear John Perkins’ story. When Dr. Perkins accepted Christ in 1960, he returned to his hometown to minister to a community ripped apart by racism. Although he was beaten and

imprisoned for his work of racial reconciliation, he held nothing against those who persecuted him, but instead prayed for them and loved them. “Dr. Perkins has inspired me to be more loving and forgiving, and less judgmental,” she says. Her time in Jackson has inspired her to lead a life of service. She would like to study nursing in college so that she can serve people with her love for anatomy and medicine.

Nicole Amaya (’15): A Journey of Transformation Soon after Nicole Amaya and her teammates arrived in Jackson, they were asked to throw a community fair, also known as the annual Easter bash, where her heart was touched by a 9-year-old boy named Allen. Allen was energetic, sweet, and trusting despite his difficult family situation; his dad was absent and a drug addict. Allen hugged Nicole and shared stories with her. She felt so blessed to hear his stories. During the trip she also had the opportunity to bond with her teammates, an experience that took her out of her comfort zone and opened her to unexpected, meaningful new friendships. She realized how much she had missed out in life by not taking risks. She found herself open to new possibilities. “It might sound like a cliché, but this trip really was life-changing,” she says. The trip has also solidified her passion to help others through social work. She plans to major in psychology at California State, San Bernardino, with the hope of becoming a grief counselor.

Tori Westra (’16): Let the Walls Fall Growing up in a family with an older sibling and cousins who attended Ontario Christian, Tori Westra had heard her share about the Jackson trip. She could not wait to experience the journey herself during this year’s Easter Break. In spite of all the stories that she had heard about Jackson, Tori was taken by its beauty, which, she realized, lay within its people. The feel of community in the capital of Mississippi was thick; people spent time outside of their homes to get involved in their neighbors’ lives, helping and supporting each other. Her eyes were opened; she started to see that poverty is more than the lack of material resources. “I want to encourage my community to be like the community in Jackson, which shows there is a richer way to live by being intentional with the people around you,” says the rising senior. Tori has already come up with an action plan: She is going to start a service club, getting other OC students out into their community. Inspired by the legendary Civil Rights leader John Perkins’ commitment for his community, she sensed a calling in her life. “No matter where my ‘Jackson’ is, I want to be just as passionate and dedicated,” she says. “Neither I nor a foundation can fix the world, but through the strength and power of our loving God, we can help change it.” q

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summer 2015

Recent Events at OC

Dianne De Groot - A Lasting Legacy

For 22 years, Dianne De Groot’s name was synonymous with Ontario Christian. When new families visited the school for the first time, she was the one who greeted them and gave them a tour of the campus. She was also instrumental in the area of fundraising. As Dianne retired in June as the Director of Admissions and Development, we would like to express our gratitude for her and wish her a happy retirement. by Regina Wang, Director of Marketing From a young age, Dianne De Groot thrived on competition and fundraising. One of nine children in a traditional Dutch family, she knew that if she wanted a new pair of shoes, she had better work hard. Her first job, at the age of 14, was cooking dinner for a family of three and ironing clothes after school. “If I could find a way to make money, I would do it,” Dianne says. “I was the kid that sold lemonade and the most candy bars.” She had no idea that 25 years later God would call her into the ministry of Christian education, using her passion and determination to raise millions of dollars for Ontario Christian. A year after she graduated from Valley Christian Schools in Cerritos in 1970, Dianne was married to her high school sweetheart Phil. When Phil’s new job relocated the couple to Chino and their first child, Eric, was ready for school, they looked at no schools other than Ontario Christian. Dianne recalls that she immediately got involved with the OC community. She became the president of Mothers’ Club and volunteered at the annual Harvest Festival while working for former OC teachers and board members, Ed and Mary Werkhoven, as a part-time bookkeeper.

photo by Nancy Ziebell

In the early ‘90s, the dairy industry in the Inland Valley faced a significant challenge. Hundreds of dairy families, who constituted a large part of the OC community, decided to pull out and move to the Central Valley because of a change in dairy regulations. The impact manifested itself at the school level: Within a few months OC lost over 100 students. That was when the school board made a bold, unprecedented move by adding a development and admissions position.

Dianne De Groot (R) embraces Eleanor Den Hartigh, a good friend and former OC Superintendent.

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Eleanor DenHartigh, who was OC superintendent at the time, says that God used the crisis to bring Dianne to work for OC. When Dianne was first hired, she had little experience or much training. But her intuition kicked in as she started to implement changes. Instead of mailing prospective families a brochure with tuition rates, she insisted on inviting them to tour the campus and meet the faculty. The response

“If God calls you, He equips you,” DenHartigh says. “Dianne trusted God with her life, and God honored that trust in Him very, very, very faithfully.”

photo by Nancy Ziebell

was overwhelming. From 1994 to 2004, the school had 200-250 average new students per year, 10 years of solid growth.

As the enrollment number continued to climb, Dianne began to look into fund development with the hope of improving facilities. She recalls her first donor visit with fondness. She still remembers how nerve-wracking it was. Sitting across from a man who had a profitable dairy business, she mustered her courage. “We need a new building. Can I have $1,000?” she asked him in her plain, direct style. When she brought the money back, everyone’s jaws dropped. From that point on, Dianne stepped forward in faith. She met with donors consistently and asked them to invest their money for eternity by supporting the ministry of Christian education. Starting in 1995, she was instrumental in the fund development for the Science and Technology Building, the Wilma Anker Building, the Albers Chapel, the high school pavilion, the preschool, and the Nancy Heuker Library, located in the elementary school. In addition, she launched the first annual auction in 1996, and facilitated 23 annual fund drives. A longtime supporter of OC, Case Zwart says God has blessed OC with Dianne. “I have a great appreciation for what Dianne has done for OC and the community,” he says. “She did a great job in fundraising and attracting families to OC.” One of the highlights of Dianne’s career was seeing the completion of the high school chapel. She remembers visiting the late Jim and Nellie Albers, sharing with them the vision of having a worship place on campus. She also remembers how nervous she was when she had to return to the Albers to request an additional $400,000 to complete the $1.4 million project, and how overjoyed she was when Nellie agreed (Jim had passed away by then). “I wish Jim and Nellie were sitting next to me at the chapel, witnessing all the generations of young people who would be blessed by the chapel,” Dianne says. Another highlight of Dianne’s career was a surprise call from the lawyer of a longtime OC parent and grandparent requesting her and John Voortman, the board president at the time, to attend a meeting where they were notified that a very generous gift of $2 million was donated to be used for a new gymnasium. She is very hopeful and excited to see that vision become a reality for Ontario Christian School community in the near future.

Phil and Dianne DeGroot

Finally, Dianne was grateful for being able to offer tuition assistance to families. Growing up with eight siblings, she was a product of tuition assistance herself. She is thankful for donors who have contributed to this important ministry. A few months before she retired, she was ecstatic to see her career-long goal fulfilled: The Artevel Foundation decided to contribute $100,000 to establish the Harm and Zwaantina te Velde Memorial Scholarship, which is awarded to Ontario Christian students with financial need who have a strong work ethic and Christian commitment. Keith Lucas, former elementary school principal, says he appreciates Dianne’s dedication. Her love for the school, he says, is evident. Eleanor DenHartigh agrees. In addition to her commitment to Christian education, Dianne, she says, inspired her to be a better supervisor. “Dianne taught me how to honor people and how to treat employees, and the value of finding ways to show how much you value people,” she says. q

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Is Jesus Really Lord Over All?

EDITORIAL

by Robert Juarez, Ontario Christian High School Bible Teacher We’re probably all familiar with the popular label seen on bumper stickers, t-shirts and various other items used for advertising or promoting a Biblical message. This particular message is recognized by the acronym NOTW (Not Of This World). This is an abbreviation for the phrase often heard in Christian circles for many decades now. “We are to be in the world, but not of the world.”

truth when he proclaims that “the earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it” (Ps.24:1). This Biblical truth can be traced back to the very beginning of time. The Scriptures declare, and creation reveals, that God is the maker of heaven and earth. And as Creator, He owns the universe – all the galaxies, the planets and stars. And Earth is simply His footstool (Acts 7:49).

Christians understand this phrase to mean that, although we must live among the general population, we are not to participate in the ungodly behavior and practices of our culture. After all, when praying for His disciples, Jesus did say that “they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world” (Jn.17:16).

And as Creator, God exercises ownership and dominion over the earth. The entire earth. It is His property. All of it. Therefore, there can be no sacred/secular divide. God is King over all. All of life is to be lived as unto the King. All of life is “sacred.”

Many followers of Jesus understand this to mean that we should, therefore, have very little to do with the “secular” realm and concentrate our efforts in the more “sacred” realm. According to this thinking, believers should spend the majority of their time, money and activities engaged in the “spiritual” Robert Juarez things of this world. That is, Christians should be busy in church work, preaching and teaching, evangelizing the lost, sponsoring Bible studies and youth activities, caring for the poor and other such good works. But Jesus also said these words, two verses later: “As you sent me into the world, I also have sent them into the world” (Jn.17:18). On the one hand, though Christians are not of the world, at the same time we have been sent into the world to serve the Lord. Too often, followers of Jesus misunderstand the message of being in but not of as teaching that we should not engage in non-Christian areas of culture. The error here is in thinking that there is such a thing as non-Christian areas of culture. This is to wrongly assume that some segments of culture fall under the Lordship of Jesus and others do not. This is not the Biblical description of culture or society. It is not the Biblical stance on cultural or societal engagement. Instead, the Scriptures remind us that “to the Lord your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it” (Deut.10:14). The Psalmist repeats this

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Jesus claims ownership over every aspect of life. He tells us that “all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” (Mt.28:18). That’s why the Bible declares that Jesus is Lord! And Christ is not only Lord of the Church. He is Lord over all. Jesus is Lord over politics. He is Lord over business and commerce. He is Lord over the arts and sciences. Jesus is Lord over sports and entertainment. Jesus is Lord over all societal and cultural activities. They all belong to Him. Christians would do well to understand this Biblical truth and live it out in our sphere of influence. Culture and society would profit from followers of Jesus actually engaging those around us with the biblical proclamation of the Lordship of Christ over all. Far too many believers seem uninterested or unattached with what goes on in our society, believing that Christian activity only takes place within the walls of a church, or Christian school, or the mission field, or some sort of Christian “ministry.” Being in the world but not of the world is not an admonition to abandon cultural engagement. This sort of thinking results in a “Christian ghetto” mentality, where followers of Jesus are content to “play church” and abandon the culture to the “world.” If it is true that Culture is the Church’s report card, we better start staying after school. How has the Church done in bringing the message of Christ’s Lordship to these areas of society: Education, Entertainment, Media, Sports, Business, Politics, and every other sphere of culture? How well has the Christian community done in being the salt and light we are called to be? Perhaps believers have bought into the false dichotomy of sacred and secular. Perhaps we have failed to realize that Jesus did not solely come to redeem souls; He came also to redeem society and culture. Perhaps we have forgotten that when Jesus said He was Lord over all… He really meant it. q

2015 Talent Show Extravaganza Reflection by Jonathan Schaap, High School English Teacher “It is finished,” a great man once said. Christ’s words here before His death, resurrection, ascension, and continued reign echo throughout history. These words also heralded in the great gospel message, the good news of Jesus Christ that is the battle cry and comfort for every believer. This good news found in the Bible is the way, the truth, and the life—the light in a dark world. I hope and pray that good news rang loud and clear through our performance this year. Often, in our sin and in a world of human agendas, we buck against that good news and drag it through the mud. However, God is sovereign. His purposes always prevail, and we are commanded to be obedient to Him and to stand in awe of Him. I think April O’Neil’s final words best sum up this year’s show: · April: “Some people report the paralyzing, fatalistic, cynical, optimistic, fluffy, cyclical, bleeding, and leading news. Some people listen to it. Others take action. And a few report the GOOD NEWS… with great joy! [Turtles yell ‘COWABUNGA!’ from offstage] This is April O’Neil signing off… And as Paul Harvey would say… ‘Good day!’” Our talent show is finished yet again… · Every year, I try to come up with a theme that is fun, culturally relevant, “reform-able”, and one that can incorporate an enormous cast and crew. · Every year, I try to come up with something communal that is fun but also worthwhile. · Every year, I want the seniors to end their high school careers on a high note with something memorable. · Every year, I tell the cast and crew that this is the final lesson that I will be teaching them and that they will be teaching their audience. We learn so much in the process. I saw a little glimpse of the Church, the Body, the Covenant Children (each with their particular talent) at work the night before the performance—I was freaking out, I didn’t know if we would be ready on time, and there were so many complications/setbacks; however, from about 7 p.m. until midnight, we worked, and everyone contributed to finalizing set pieces, decorating, etc.—it was a joy to witness, and everything came together! It was a miracle. Praise God! · Every year, I am amazed by who comes out of the woodwork with such transcendent talent to do set design, to edit film, or to act for the very first time. I often wonder, why did they wait to the very end of high school to start doing this!? · Every year, the talent show is a great challenge and just about breaks me. continued on page 19

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Ĺ&#x2019;

graduations

High School Graduation

photos by Nancy Ziebell

Middle School Graduation

Kindergarten Graduations

Ontario christian schools

2015 High School Grads Congratulations to the Class of 2015 for receiving over $4 million in scholarships. Name of Graduate Haley Amber Alcala Jacob Sebastian Aleman Johnathon Michael Alva Melany Chidima Amarikwa Nicole Faith Amaya Madison Lee Apolinar Timothy Lee Apostolou Samuel James Archer Alyssa Nicole Avila Sequoia Barrios-Martinez Charis Margaret-Micaela Bassi Ronald David Berdin Johnathan Michael Bergamo Erik James Castro Vitaly Cervera Guo Chen Baylie Ann Conrad Kyle Perren Corbett Adriana Cortez Matthew Michael Curtiss Kristofer Randall De Moica Lauren Renee Detreville Alan John De Vries Tyus Anthony Dennis Rylee Nichole Emrick Jonathan Louis Escobedo Rebecca Marie Faure Noah Emmanuel Felix Savannah Cherie Flom Alexandrea Amy Flores Danielle Marie Foster Breann Kathleen Fox Daniel Luis Garcia Jason Alexander Garza TingJia Ge Madison Noelle Giali Kimberly Joyce Gonzalez Stephanie Gonzalez Ernest Emanuel Gustafson, lll Kaila Nathalie Gutierrez Collin James Hardy Kristina Lauren Heman-Ackah Taliah Nicole Hightower Kyle Matthew Hough Xujia Hu Katie Marie Inge Jordan Michael Ishii Daniel Isusquiza Rebecca Lynn Jack Alexis Nicole Johnson Hayden Brooks Jorgenson Brianna Sarah Kaltenbach Brennan Earl Kiledjian Luke Ryan Kloosterman Alexis Nicole Kojo Kodi David Kramer Megan Elizabeth Kunzi Jay Won Lee Olivia Loren Lemus

Further Education Major Chaffey College & transfer Art Design Cal Baptist University Business CSU Pomona Music UC Berkeley Biology CSU San Bernardino Psychology Mt. San Antonio College & transfer Nursing CSU Pomona Business UC Irvine Civil Engineering University of San Francisco Biology Undecided Biola University Kinesiology Mt. San Antonio College & transfer Undeclared Vanguard University Undeclared Chaffey College & transfer Graphic Design UC Riverside Undeclared Purdue University Calumet Management Grand Canyon University Health Care Administration Northwestern College Business Management Cal Baptist University Allied Health University of Redlands Music Performance Full Sail University Audio Production Point Loma Nazarene University Biochemistry/Business William Jessup University Undeclared Chaffey College & transfer Psychology Grand Canyon University Nursing Azusa Pacific University Communication Studies Miami Dade College & transfer Computer Science CSU Pomona Engineering Technology Cal Baptist University Biochemistry University of La Verne Undeclared Chaffey College & transfer Digital Film/Video Production CSU Long Beach Kinesiology University of La Verne Computer Science Navy CSU Pomona Graphic Design Biola University Business University of La Verne Kinesiology Cal Baptist University Undeclared Azusa Pacific University Criminal Justice Point Loma Nazarene University Applied Health Science Biola University Business Management UC Riverside Creative Writing Biola University Biological Science University of La Verne Kinesiology New York University Sociology Northwestern College Biology Azusa Pacific University Computer Science University of La Verne Accounting Grand Canyon University Athletic Training Texas Christian University Journalism Azusa Pacific University Mathematics University of La Verne Undeclared Providence Christian College Liberal Arts Azusa Pacific University Undeclared San Diego State University Liberal Studies CSU Pomona Business Marketing Grand Canyon University Nursing CSU Monterey Bay Marine Biology CSU Pomona Liberal Arts

Matthew Brian Leos Mitchell James Lintott Peter Ashbrook Lord Brianna Lynn Ma Gabriel Macias Faith Monet Maese Megan Elaine Manquen Courtney Brooke Martin Hayley Brianna Martinez Amanda Renee McGuire Mackenzie Mary Mercado Nicole Marie Miller Jesse Everette Monroe Miranda Hannah Munguia Mossimo Luther Munguia Natalie Roxanne Nutt Jocelyn Ochoa Jelani Gyasi Olufemi Naomi Nicole Orantes Kayla Anne Paul Sydney Paige Peauroi Molly Anne Penalver Aryeh Jared Perry David Joseph Porter Kassidy Rebekah Ramoneda Areana Alexis Ramos Christian Anthony Reyes Griffin Beadell Ridley Michael Edward Rivera Kyle Daniel Rowland Riley Joy Ruiz Nicholas John Sakowski Amanda Salazar Ashleigh Elizabeth Salazar Brandi Michelle Sanchez Nadine Breann Sandoval Morgan Elizabeth Santana Brooke Marie Schaefer Brandon Robert Sedano Adam Joseph Seidenfeld Lauren Sara Serna Jacob Andrew Sherrill Gabrielle Pearl Slocum David Alexander Solares Adrene Chere Spencer Miranda Jean Stool Edward Ray Tafoya Jr. Nathanael Jacob Taylor Daniel Anthony Valdivia Austin Joseph Van Veldhuizen Jacob Edward Vanden Bosch Alex Jonathan Vander Tuig Fernando Davin Vargas Renee Jazmin Vergara Adam John Verhoeven Marcelo Daniel Villacis Ani Jessica Villarreal Carlos Javier Villarreal Charity Elise Waddy Rebecca Delaine Wester Guozhou Wu Edward Andrew Yelland Bryan Zarate Xingda Zhu

Riverside College Undeclared Universal Technical Institute Automotive Repair Grand Canyon University Computer Science UC Irvine Biological Science Mt. San Antonio College Undeclared Chaffey College & transfer Business Pepperdine University Mathematics University of La Verne Political Science Job Corp College Program Nursing Assistant CSU Fullerton Business Administration Vanguard University English Wheaton College Communications Pepperdine University Communications Providence Christian College Liberal Arts US Marine Corps Avionics Program Grand Canyon University Elementary Education Grand Canyon University Nursing Dominican University of California Graphic Design Cal Baptist University Health Science Chaffey College & transfer Business Marketing Westmont College Biology George Fox University Social Work Harding University Music Undecided Grand Canyon University Psychology Biola University Biological Science Cal Baptist University Undeclared Pomona College Classics Chaffey College Undeclared UC Riverside Material Science and Engineering Cal Baptist University Nursing Employment Chaffey College & transfer Liberal Arts UC Irvine Microbiology CSU Pomona Civil Engineering Biola University Nursing Cal Baptist University Communication Disorders Chaffey College & transfer Psychology Chaffey College & transfer Electronic Engineering Azusa Pacific University Undeclared Biola University Human Science University of La Verne Undeclared University of La Verne Accounting Employment UC Riverside Business Riverside College & transfer Nursing Tafoya Racing Team Grand Canyon University Music CSU Pomona Marketing Analysis Northwestern College Business Management Northern Arizona University Civil Engineering Calvin College Engineering Pepperdine University Communications University of La Verne Psychology Cal Baptist University Christian Studies CSU Pomona Undeclared CSU Pomona English CSU Pomona Business Loyola Marymount University Civil Engineering CSU San Luis Obispo Animal Science Stony Brook University Electrical Engineering US Navy Intelligence The Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College Biblical Studies University of La Verne Psychology

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summer 2015

Recent Events at OC

Fine Arts Festival 2015

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by Elizabeth Akindejoye, 7th Grade Bible & History Teacher The Fine Arts Festival has a long and rich history. In fact, I had the opportunity to perform and be a part of it when I was in 5th through 8th grade at Calvin Christian School in Escondido, one of the schools that is still a vital part of the festival. It takes a lot of hard work on behalf of the students, teachers, and administrative assistants who work hard putting it together, but it is a priceless opportunity for the students who are involved. This year was no exception. On the morning of Wednesday, April 22, the campus of New Life Community Church in Artesia was abuzz with numerous 5th through 8th grade students, their parents, accompanists, and adjudicators for the annual regional Fine Arts Festival. Ontario Christian is one of the four schools that participate in this annual event. Students can try out at their respective schools for a number of artistic opportunities in order to be selected to perform at the actual festival. Events range from vocal and instrumental solos and ensembles to speeches, plays, and writing. Each year the four schools alternate bringing their choirs and bands to have an adjudicator help them build their performance skills. The culminating event is the knowledge bowl, a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Jeopardy!â&#x20AC;&#x2122;-style trivia game where each of the schools goes head-to-head in a competition of academic questions where the winners have the highest cumulative points at the end of rounds. The festival is a time to share the God-given talents of artistically gifted students, and a time to learn how they can improve those gifts. It is a rare opportunity to have judges in their area of expertise not only praise students for what they are able to perform, but also give constructive feedback for how they can improve that talent. The Fine Arts Festival is a fabulous event to showcase artistic abilities and give glory to our creative God. We would love to have everyone come support our OC students next year at New Life on Thursday, February 25, 2016.

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A Thousand Thanks We Did It... $115,000! We went OVER our Goal of $100,000. by Nicole DeVries, Special Events Coordinator This year’s Annual Benefit Auction & Dinner was held on April 24. Over 200 guests enjoyed the night at Los Serranos Country Club with friendly and competitive bidding, delicious dinner and warm fellowship. We listened to OC’s very own talented jazz band led by band director Tim Vande Griend while choir director Melanie Kraut sang for our enjoyment. We were blessed with a fabulous auctioneer, Matt Rogers, who kept the crowd entertained and engaged in some fun and successful bidding. Special thanks to the Los Serranos Country Club owners and current OC family, Ron and Hollie Kramer, for letting us hold this year’s event at their establishment once again. We also want to thank everyone who gave so generously to our auction through donations, sponsorships, attendance, volunteering and purchasing items. We could not have done this event without you. q

Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. — Ephesians 3:20

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summer 2015

Recent Events at OC

Grandparents Day by Caroline Glover, grandparent of five OC students this year

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I truly enjoyed the Grandparents Day program. I am blessed to have all five of my grandchildren as students at Ontario Christian. Every year I look forward to the Grandparents Day program. Even though I live in Oceanside, I am happy to wake up early so that I can attend the program each morning on Good Friday. I am truly blessed when I hear the song selections performed by each class and the middle school choir. The songs of worship and praise bless my heart. I also enjoy the vignettes that are shown in between the performances. The wonderful close to the day is the classroom visitation. My grandchildren are so proud and excited to show me their classrooms and introduce me to their teachers. Many thanks to Ontario Christian for hosting such a wonderful program on Good Friday. I look forward to future programs. Sincerely, Caroline Glover (Grandmother of Morgan Woods, Hailey Woods, Jacob Glover, Benjamin Glover, and Elijah Glover)

Accreditation News Ontario Christian has received accreditation from Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and Christian Schools International (CSI) through 2020. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to thank all the faculty and staff who have poured many hours of hard work into the accreditation process. Way to go, OC!

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Legacy and Vision:

Louise Van Veen by Regina Wang, Director of Marketing

In 1949, when Harry S. Truman gave his second inaugural speech, the Queen Mary took Louise van Oostende from the Netherlands to America to meet her fiance, John Van Veen. She was 20 years old. Louise tried to make sense of her life in the new homeland after they got married and settled in Missoula, Montana. Not knowing much English nor having many friends, she began to teach herself English by listening to the radio. By the time she became fluent in English, her family expanded from two to nine. The children’s names were Jackie, John, Case, Alice, Gary, Shirley, and Rosemary. In the 1970s, the Van Veens moved to Chino. They sent their school-aged children (Alice ‘73, Gary ‘74, Shirley ‘76, and Rosemary ‘81) to Ontario Christian. Gary served as a missionary in the Dominican Republic for 18 years. Looking back, Louise, now 86, says it was at times financially difficult to send her children to a private Christian school. But she and her husband bit the bullet. They worked hard to make sure their kids had the best education not just for the mind but also for the soul (John passed away in 2008). Over the years the Van Veen family has supported Ontario Christian by helping other families receive the gift of Christian education. Now, with 14 grandkids and 15 great grandkids, Louise clearly sees the blessings multiplied from one generation to the next.

Talent Show, continued from page 13 · Every year, I am humbled by what goes into actually putting on a production on whatever scale whether it be a play, a movie, or something else. I think any director, writer, or producer can relate to the work and stress involved. Being involved in this year’s production and past projects continually puts everything in perspective. · Every year, we seek to improve ourselves. · Every year, it is the most stressful/challenging thing that I do in my life, but it is also the most fulfilling and fun. I am living a dream here. · Every year, I love it. This year was the most ambitious project to date. The script was 47 pages long (almost twice as long/involved as previous years – lots of lines/cues to memorize). We had 60+ people in the cast and crew! I also overheard many people commenting on how the Acts this year were of a very high caliber. I agree. We love showcasing OC talent and are always looking for a variety of acts every year! It was great to

Four generations, L to R: Renee Wagner (granddaughter), Louise Van Veen, Alice (Van Veen) TeVelde (daughter) and Mae Louise (great granddaughter).

“We believe in Christian education,” she says. “My husband and I helped students go to OC. We believe that when you’re able, you should support others. The Lord has blessed us, and we share our blessings. It’s all through the Lord.” q

have an alumni act this year and for the first time in talent show history—a parent act! I am amazed at what the talent show at OC has become since 2003 and how it continues to thrive. I am happy to be part of this work and excited for future productions! I am so pleased that we are getting some new lights and sound equipment for the chapel to be used in a variety of capacities—please continue to support the fine arts here at OCHS! The Talent Show is one of the biggest events on campus, and it is absolutely free! We are just thankful and excited when students, alumni, parents, and people from the community attend our performance. I pray it was a blessing to our audience and to those involved, and I can’t wait until next year! What will be the theme in 2016? Thank you, 2015 cast and crew. You will be dearly missed. Thank you, Acts – you were amazing! Thank you also to faculty, parents, and students who contributed! And thank you, Lord God! Until we meet again… q

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Employee News

Farewell Good and Faithful Servants

Ellie Begley

Nancy Cloke

Ellie Begley was a young mother of an OC preschooler and kindergartner when she began her career as the business manager at Ontario Christian Schools 18 years ago. In those years, she developed her role into an administrative position with many levels of responsibility due to her talents, skills, and servant heart for Christian education. She was key in the success of keeping OC on budget, especially during the many capital campaigns during her tenure. We are very thankful for the years she gave to Ontario Christian Schools and wish her well as she continues to be used in Christian education at Redlands Christian Schools.

Nancy has worked at OC Preschool for close to 19 years. She has been the preschool’s opening teacher at 6:30 a.m. for many years. She greeted parents and students alike in the morning with a smile to welcome in the new day. Nancy taught the four-yearold class for most of those years, but just this fall changed her job description to the Assistant Director of the Preschool. Her hard work and dedication to the preschool will be greatly missed. Nancy retires with her husband, and plans to enjoy more time with their grandchildren. May God bless her and her family as they start a new chapter of their lives in service to Christ.

Laura Campbell

Dori Olson

OC has been blessed for eight years by Laura’s enthusiasm for student learning, her love for Jesus, and her integration of her faith into the classroom. Laura taught 4th grade and 2nd grade during her time at OC, and stepping into her classroom brought all who entered into a positive learning environment and a room full of student work on display, demonstrating her love for structure and organization, as well as color and energy. One of Laura’s passions was to create a community within her classroom where students could learn appropriate interpersonal skills, but could also grow to love and accept each other as brothers and sisters in the family of God—what a wonderful picture of how we belong as members of Christ’s body. Thank you, Laura, for sharing your heart with our students, for encouraging the faculty, and always striving to make OC the best school. May God continue to bless Laura as she steps into the role of full-time mother, caring for her new daughter born earlier this year.

Dori completed her 17th year at OC Preschool before deciding to retire. Dori served a number of roles at the preschool. She started as a teacher’s aide, but soon moved to part time halfday Pre-K classroom teacher, and then the full-day Pre-K classroom teacher, but eventually she settled into the halfday Pre-K teacher position again. Dori has blessed us with her talents in creativity. She painted the mural on the multi-purpose room wall in the preschool playground, and was our go-to person for ideas and projects for our Grandparents’ Teas and Christmas Programs. We will miss Mrs. Dori’s Pirate Treasure and Scavenger Hunts! May God bless Dori and her family as she starts a new time in her life to praise and serve our Lord.

Ontario christian schools

Tim Vande Griend

Tina West

Ontario Christian bids farewell and wishes Tim Vande Griend, as well as his wife Kristen, Godspeed. We give thanks to God for the six years they blessed our families and students. Ministering to and training band students from grades 5-12 takes a special gift; Tim has that unique balance and blend of professionalism and dynamic/magnetic personality that makes students want to be in band and perform to the best of their abilities for God and out of love for their director! Tim’s many gifts and talents include worship ministries, especially in a church setting. We honor and support God’s call on his life to become the Director of Worship at CrossPoint Church in Chino, but are acutely aware of the giant “hole” his absence leaves behind. As Tim came to Ontario Christian six years ago through a “God-story”, we trust God to show the administration whom He would have come to OC to build on Tim’s legacy. We also look forward to continued ministry with Tim in our community! To God be the glory!

Tina arrived at Ontario Christian in 2003 as our Home Economics teacher. After a brief hiatus, she returned to OC near the end of 2004. Tina is a visionary, and as a result, she tried many things to improve student achievement and the student experience on the high school campus. She has been a leader, developing our Peer Counseling program and taking over NHS. Additionally, she was the AP test coordinator, arranged for AP test accommodations, served as the cheerleading coach, organized peer tutoring, and likely many other unnamed duties. Tina’s passion for students struggling with the storms of life, the issues many of us may never know about them, allowed her to connect with students on a more personal level, giving many of them a safe place to turn amidst the chaos of life. Tina also helped new teachers acclimate to their profession, providing them with ways to meet the demands of teaching young people. Tina leaves a distinct imprint on our campus and community.

Thoughtful and loving friends who wish to honor either living or departed friends and 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 appropriate note as will the family of those honored in death. The name of the person remembered will be listed in our newsletter unless requested otherwise. The amount of the gift is kept confidential and is tax deductible.

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

1. $____________ in memory of _______________________________________ 2. $____________ in celebration of _____________________________________ 3. $____________ in support of Christian education

Ontario Christian Schools thanks YOU for your support!

Foundation Builder

OCS Foundation

The Ontario Christian Foundation gratefully acknowledges all gifts received: In Memory of Art Aukeman Mr. & Mrs. Andy Sytsma

In Memory of John Troost Mr. & Mrs. George Groen Mr. & Mrs. Bill Van Leeuwen

In Memory of Al DeVries Sheryl Meendering

Mr. & Mrs. Jack Northouse

Ms. Penny L. Coelho

Mr. Dean Schoolmeester

Mr. & Mrs. James De Groot

Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Vandenberg

Mr. & Mrs. George Denhartigh

Mr. & Mrs. Ed Werkhoven

Dr. & Mrs. Eric Evenhuis

Mr. & Mrs. Case Zwart

Ms. Suzanne Gritter

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summer 2015

Recent Events at OC

Athletic Boosters Club Hosts a Record 182 Golfers in its 22nd Annual Classic

by Bernie Gabrielse, Club President What a fabulous and historic day May 29, 2015, was for our OC Boosters Club Golf Tournament. We had over 190 golfers sign up and our committee was scrambling to put everything together so we could have a smooth event. Under the leadership of our chairman, Kevin Knutson, we were able to have an exciting and fun event. At 7:45 the golfers headed out to their carts. Once there we opened with prayer and had a rousing rendition of “God Bless America” sung by Doug Westenbrook. It was a great way to get us off and rolling. We use a scramble format and this year we were actually on two courses. We had a car that was provided by MK Smith where golfers were given a chance (slim as that may be) to win a brand new car.

enjoy. Each golfer enjoyed a Chick-fil-A sandwich which always seems to hit the spot. And finally at the end we had the traditional Helicopter Ball Drop, which this year was won by Marlene De Jong. I would like to take a moment to thank everyone that attended this year’s tournament. The last 4 years our number of golfers has gone from 112 to 128, to last year’s record 146 to this year’s record shattering 182 golfers. It’s a great trend to see and we know it takes a lot to take a day off from work and support this event. We would also like to thank our event sponsors and 114 Tee Sponsors, you too are important for our event to be a success. After the golfing was over, the masses went to the banquet room to watch videos of their golf swings, pictures of OC athletes from this past year, enjoy a good meal, and see if they won any of the 53 raffle gifts.

photos by Nancy Ziebell

We again had the Krank Driver hole that the golfers could

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Our golfers were welcomed by our new interim superintendent, Dr. Ken Bootsma, as he told a story or two before opening our dinner with prayer. Then our athletic director, Mr. David Parkes, awarded Mr. Kevin Knutson with his golf team’s 2014 CIF championship banner that will hang in the OC gym. Congrats again to Kevin for that. Kevin then took center stage to hand out the awards for the golf tournament. The first place team with a score of 50 was a Gaudy Law Foursome: Dan Gaudy, Kyle Haas, Derek Laing and Chad De Groot. Second place was the team from Chino Valley Medical Center with a 56, of Troy Schell, Juan Banos, Ramon Banos and Chris Marsden. Third place with a score of 57 went to Eric Fikse, Blake Fikse, Billy Mouw and William Mouw. First place for the seniors group was: Al Scheenstra, Ed Talen, Mitch De Hoog and John Voortman. Competition winners were as follows: Closest to the pin, Hole #S6 - Bethany Wu Closest to the pin, Hole #S9 - Katlyn Walski Closest to the pin, Hole #S12 - Brian Hanna Longest Drive, Hole #S14 - Aaron Imamura Longest Drive, Hole #S14 - Seniors and Women - Katlyn Walski Closest to the Pin, Hole #S17 Seniors and Women - Tim Sleeger Closest to the Pin, Hole #N2 Seniors and Women - John Ambriz Closest to the Pin, Hole #N6 - Phil Belko Closest to the Pin, Hole #N10 - Seniors and Women - Ed Talen Longest Drive, Hole #14 - Mike Sailhamer Closest to the Pin, Hole N17 - Phil De Groot

Once the awards were given out, Mr. Tom Hamming was singled out for his many years of dedication of teaching the fundamentals of sports to our athletes. Thanks again, Tom, and please keep doing it. We concluded with the awarding of the raffle gifts. Many people headed home with their winnings and smiles on their faces. At the conclusion OC superintendent, Mr. Ryan Groen, closed with prayer. Our Boosters Club wants to wish Mr. Groen well as he moves on and thank him for the support he has given to Ontario Christian. Once again it was a great day to be a “Knight”. A special thanks to our committee who put in many hours of work, and to Kevin Knutson’s family who also went above and beyond to make this a success. It takes many willing workers so if you want to be a part next year, please plan to join our Boosters Club. You can find out details on the OC athletic website. We have again reserved both courses for next year so please mark your calendar now well in advance for June 3, 2016. Thank you again for your generous support of Ontario Christian athletics. q

Have you seen Ontario Christian Schools admissions video? Visit ocschools.org/admissions/ Tell a friend!

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summer 2015

Alumni News - Class Notes

Class Notes 1990s

Kristal (Niemand) Johnson (’99) has been working as a registered nurse at Loma Linda Children’s Hospital for 11 years, with the last 9 of those years in the NICU. She is married and has a daughter.

2000s

Tim Scheuers (’06) graduated from MidAmerica Reformed Seminary in 2013 with a Master of Divinity. He is pursuing a Ph.D. in Historical Theology at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena. Kyle Lee (’07) graduated from UC Riverside with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration in 2010. He graduated cum laude from

Florida A&M University College of Law in 2013. He passed the Florida bar exam, and he was sworn into the Florida Bar in September 2013. He is now practicing medical malpractice defense. His practice is focused on defending doctors, medical groups, and hospitals when they are sued for malpractice. Justus Jones (’07) graduated from Bowling Green State University in 2011. He lives in Sylvania, Ohio, and works as an insurance agent at State Farm in Toledo. Jonathan Bass (’07) is a photojournalist for the 20th Fighter Wing, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. He married Caitlyn Pease Bass on January 3 this year. He is returning to college online at Liberty University to get his Bachelor of Science in Communications.

Heather (Hanning) De Hoog (’07) finished school and became a veterinary technician at an emergency animal shelter. She works currently at a pet insurance company. She was married in 2013, and is expecting her first child in August. Stephen and Emily (Vos) Stiles (both ’09) welcomed their second daughter, Abigail Faith, into the world on June 3. She joins sister, Audra Joy, 19 months.

2010s

Kaitlyn Mendoza (‘10) graduated in June 2014 from Seattle University with a Bachelor of Arts & Sciences in Communication Studies, and is currently the social media assistant for Radarworks.

Alumni! What’s Your Story? Email your story to Nicole DeVries at ndevries@ocschools.org.

Follow Ontario_Christian on Instagram 1

1) Congratulations, Class of 2015! “Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” (Proverbs 16:3). Visit ocschools.org for more photos. 2) Last day of school is always so much fun!! 3) BIG GREEN sports camp recently held by OC high school varsity coaches.

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photos by Nancy Ziebell

Elementary School Green & Gold Day

Middle School Talent Show

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summer 2015

parents perspective

Thank You OC!

One Family’s Perspective

The Jorgensons (L to R): Danielle, Nolan, Hayden, Gordon, and Annaka

The following letter is from Gordon and Danielle Jorgenson. Their son, Hayden, graduated from OC this year and will be playing baseball for Azusa Pacific University. After attending the annual Senior Awards Night, where we present scholarships and awards to our graduating class, the Jorgenson sent us a letter: “The program Friday was just AMAZING. It was such a blessing to see all the different awards given to so many of the kids we have been blessed to get to know over the past four years. Please share our thanks with everyone who was involved with planning that event. As parents, we are VERY GRATEFUL for all these extra special things that are done for our kids. Over the weekend, we had several occasions to talk about Senior Night with friends and family, and the most common response from them was ”Wow, our kid’s school doesn’t do anything like that.” Some of these were even from friends who have kids at other small private schools. It is a pretty bittersweet time for Hayden and our family right now. Leaving behind such great experiences and memories is hard. I can honestly say that there is a small list of things we have committed to over the years that have been tough decisions. Choosing OC is on that list only because of the financial commitment. By God’s grace and provision, we have been able to find a way for Hayden and soon Annaka and Nolan. The benefits and blessings we have experienced at OC have long since surpassed any of our expectations. Thank you for playing a part in what has truly been one of the BEST decisions we have ever made for our kids.” q

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Staff Spotlight:

Amber McKee

by Regina Wang, Director of Marketing

Quick facts: • graduated from Ontario Christian in 2000 • B.A. in athletic training from Point Loma Nazarene University • M.A. in sports management from American Public University • Board of Certification certified athletic trainer; preceptor for the University of La Verne Athletic Training Education Program • teaches anatomy, sports medicine, Christian leadership, and physical education

At Ontario Christian, we have the blessing of having our own athletic trainer – Amber McKee. An athletic trainer is a medical professional who cares for athletes and the physically active. “I’m an advocate for student athletes,” Amber says. When student athletes have any physical injury, Amber leaps to action. She reports to the scene with her emergency kit. During the football season, she is present at every practice and game, dealing with situations such as cramps, dehydration, injuries, and rehabilitation. Nancy Ziebell, whose son Jacob graduated from OC in 2012, volunteers for the football team. She watches Amber pacing the sidelines to keep an eye on the athletes, and racing to action the second a situation rises. “She devotes every ounce of her heart and her soul to the students at OC,” Nancy says. “She is not only their athletic trainer and teacher; but she is also their mentor for injuries on the field and in life.”

Amber McKee (‘00) currently serves as OC’s athletic trainer

In addition, Amber also leads a team of students who are called “McKee’s Minions.” These students assist her in her daily duties (caring for injuries, preparing for games and practices, etc.) and thereby, learn the art of sports medicine. Amber discovered athletic training when she was a junior at OC. A student athlete herself, she once sprained her ankle so badly that she sought help from a physical therapist, from whom she learned about athletic training as a career option. She has a wealth of experience in athletic training. After graduating from Point Loma Nazarene University, she worked for three years at Orange Lutheran High School as the head athletic trainer. She then worked for two years at California Baptist University, and later, several small colleges in Ohio. She and her husband, Jason, have been married since 2006. They have a son, Colin, and a daughter, Cora. q

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summer 2015

Recent Events at OC

5th Grade Colonial Fair

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photos by Bob DeGroot, Middle School Principal

Ontario christian schools

Senior Awards Night photos by Alex Ma, OC Parent

High School Renaissance Rally photos by Regina Wang, Director of Marketing

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summer 2015

Alumni Profile

Alumni Spotlight: Ryan De Koekkoek (’96)

When Ryan De Koekkoek took Mr. Gordon Swangel’s history class, he had no idea how it would impact his life years down the road. by Regina Wang, Director of Marketing Wide-eyed with his jaw slightly open, the 17-year-old Ryan De Koekkoek listened attentively to the adventures of Generalissimo Chiang Kai Shek, told by his history teacher, Mr. Gordon Swangel. Mr. Swangel’s attention to detail and passion for learning struck Ryan, and he looked forward to his teacher’s stories every day during that semester. These WWII stories left a deep impression on him, far deeper than he realized. “They made me want to experience the world, and that’s who I am today,” Ryan says. “I love traveling and seeing the world, experiencing different cultures.” A newfound interest was planted in him, which grew during his college years and beyond. The summer before his senior year in college, he traveled to Australia. A few years later, he went on a short-term mission trip to Turkey, an experience that touched him profoundly and led him to Urbana, a missions conference sponsored by InterVarsity Christian Fellowship that drew hundreds of thousands of students, challenging them to live faithfully for God. At Urbana, he got a call from God to serve internationally. In 2001, Ryan responded to the call by teaching at a missionary/ international school in Tokyo, Japan, where he encountered students of Buddhist and Hindu backgrounds. Every day, he realized, provided a mission field. He served there for two and half years. Now a teacher at Timothy Christian Schools in Elmhurst, Illinois, Ryan has continued to be faithful to God’s call. He has exposed Timothy students to different parts of the world by taking them to Italy, Spain, Greece, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, China, and Japan. Parents have thanked Ryan for helping their children to become comfortable with other cultures and to open their eyes to the world. He is also involved in Timothy’s international program, assisting the director by establishing a worldview club and creating an environment for domestic and international students to interact and be friends. “I feel the Lord is working in my life regarding impacting international students and broadening the horizons of our domestic students,” he says. “I want all students—international and domestic—to have an appreciation for different people groups.”

Ontario christian schools

Top: Ryan De Koekkoek and his wife, Laura, visited China in spring 2014. Left, middle: The De Koekkoeks with their son Nathan, with another child on the way in early September. Right, middle: Ryan and a group of students in front of a gate that leads to a Shinto shrine in Japan. Bottom left: The De Koekkoeks visited the the tomb of China’s First Emperor, Qin, and his terra-cotta army. Bottom right: Ryan received a letter from Mr. Gordon Swangel upon his graduation.

He has Mr. Swangel to thank for this love of the global community. Long before Ryan knew he had the desire to experience different cultures, Mr. Swangel already foresaw its coming. In a letter addressed to him in 1996, Mr. Swangel encouraged him to go and see God’s world. “After you see California, you can widen your horizons to the rest of the greatest nation, and then conquer the world. Be adventurous! Make your life a witness for the Lord.” q

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

Professional Services

Sharon Morff Attorney at Law

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) 214-4001 Sandy DuBoise-Real Estate Agent (909) 947-2777

Tax and Retirement Services (909) 467-5433

Move With a Name You Know! 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

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

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

Health Services

Home Services

construction Services

Francisco C. Enverga, D.D.S.

J & T De Vries Pest Control

Wiersma & Sleeger Construction, Inc.

Residential · Commercial · Landscape · AGI

General & Cosmetic Dentistry

(909) 988-9680

2508 S. Grove Ave. • Ontario, CA 91761

Flies · Spiders · Ants · Roaches Fleas · Rodents · Birds · Weeds

Nelson, Vince, and Marty P: 909-467-0351 F: 909-391-1919 Remodeling, additions, patios, finish work, dairy buildings

Bouma A/C & Heating

D & D Contractors Inc.

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

State License: #491698

David Gonzalez Marin

Jim Riezebos Service & Installation 12188 Central Ave. #343 Chino, CA 91710 (909) 673-1075

dgonmarin43@gmail.com

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

Driving School Support the O.C. Marketplace Contact Regina Wang to place your ad 909-983-4644

ALL*STAR DRIVING & TRAFFIC VIOLATERS SCHOOL La Verne (909) 596-6896 R. Cucamonga (909) 948-5363 Norco (951) 817-8554 www.allstardriving.com

Ontario Christian Received

$152,000

3 Way Thrift distributed $152,000 last year to Ontario Christian. The funds were 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

summer 2015

Growing Christian Leaders

Ontario Christian Schools 931 W. Philadelphia Street Ontario, CA 91762

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

Current Resident or

ONTARIO

CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

ocschools.org

DATES T O R E ME M B E R september, 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

october, 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

3 7 8 8 9 15 21 22 28 29 29

Preschool/Jr K Parent Orientation 7:00 PM Labor Day - Boosters Pancake Breakfast 7:00 AM K-8 “Meet the Teacher” 8:20-11:30 am Half Day - All Freshman and New Students 8:20-11:30 am First Day of School - Full Day 8:00 AM K-6 Parent Orientation 6:30 PM Boosters Meeting 7:00 PM MS Parent Orientation 6:30 PM HS Parent Orientation 6:30 PM 8th Grade Retreat Preschool/Jr K Open House 6:30 PM

5 10 14 19 23 24 26

Christian College Fair 6:00 PM College Application Workshop 10:00 AM Half Day - Teacher in Service Boosters 7:00 PM Homecoming Homecoming Dance 7th-12th Grade Band/Choir Concert 7:00 PM

6 11 12 13 19 23-24 25-27 30

Harvest Festival 2:00 PM Half Day - Parent/Teachers Conference No School - Parent/Teachers Conference Holiday - No School HS Grandparents Day 8:00 AM Teachers Conference - No School Thanksgiving Break - No School Boosters 7:00 PM

Multi-Purpose Room HS Campus ES Campus

HS Library Multi-Purpose Room HS Chapel Preschool

HS Chapel

HS Library

HS Chapel

november, 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

HS Campus

HS Chapel

HS Library

December, 2015 S M T W T F S

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

18 Christmas Break Begins—Half Day 21-Jan 1 Christmas Break—No School