A Newsletter of DeMotte Christian Schools Covenant Christian High School • DeMotte Christian School Spring 2016

Instrumental, Vocal and Piano, Oh My!

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ach year the Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA) sponsors regional and state music performance activities for teachers and students. ISSMA’s goals are to assist in the development of performance-oriented assessment of state and national music standards and to offer educational support. Both DeMotte Christian and Covenant Christian participate in these regional events. Covenant students who received a gold medal in the most rigorous regional level moved on to the state competition in Indianapolis. Covenant had six vocal soloists and an eight-member vocal ensemble (octet) who participated in the regional vocal competition which took place on January 30. Out of this group, five soloists and the octet moved on to the state competition that was held on February 20. At that competition, the students proved very successful. State soloist gold medal winners were Brenna Tolkamp ’18, Nicki DeBoer ’17, Kaiden Tolkamp ’17, and Allison Eades ’16. The CCHS octet also took home a gold medal.

CCHS ISSMA state participants

Photo: Pho Eades

The octet was comprised of Grace DeBoer ’19, Brenna Tolkamp ’18, Nicki DeBoer ’17, Allison Eades ’16, Reagan Ryken ’19, Zac Thomas ’19, Cayden VanKley ’18, and Kaiden Tolkamp ’17. Choral director, Mrs. Funderburg, commented, “CCHS musicians performed their hearts out at the ISSMA State Music Contest. They fought through

breath-stealing nerves, long waits in hot hallways, and nasty colds, and did a GREAT job!” DeMotte Christian students performed in the regional instrumental, vocal and piano competitions. (There is no state competition at this age.) For the vocal and piano competitions on January 30, DMC had 17 vocal soloists and six ensembles. They also had five piano solos. For the instrumental competition on February 6, DMC had 22 soloists and two ensembles perform. Students were awarded silver and gold rankings. Choral and band director, Mrs. Funderburg, remarked, “The students all performed well. I was pleased with their preparation and poise under pressure.” She shared that the judge for the 6th grade boys’ ensemble spoke to them and gave them encouragement that they had a great thing started and should keep singing together. What an affirmation of their gifts! We are thankful for the opportunities ISSMA provides that allow our students to use and explore their musical gifts and talents – both individually and as part of an ensemble.

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Science & History Fair Showcases Student Research and Creativity

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fter investing two and a half months of work junior high students were ready to showcase their projects. On the evening of February 11, 2016, the DMC gymnasium was bustling with people of all ages as 101 junior high students displayed and presented their science and history projects. The 6th and 7th grade students completed science projects while the 8th grade students invested themselves into history topics. Before the fair, each student presented his or her project to judges. This annual event allows students to choose a research project they are interested in, show their creativity, and prepare them for the rigors of high school. For the Science Fair, students began by choosing a topic. Their next responsibility was taking their topic step-by-step through the scientific method – a way to ask and answer scientific questions by making observations and doing experiments. The steps of the scientific method are: • Ask a Question • Do Background Research • Construct a Hypothesis

• Test your Hypothesis by doing an Experiment • Analyze your Data and Draw a Conclusion Science project topics ranged from anatomy—memory loss, ability to hear different sounds, and blood pressure – to ecology – cleaners, soda, and fertilizers. For the History Fair, students began by choosing a topic and developing a thesis that they would need to defend. They were not just presenting biographical or general information.

By December, students had researched their topic and written a paper about their thesis, further defending their stance. After Christmas break, students worked on their display boards and interviews further expanding on their thesis and presenting it 2

artistically on their board, using pictures, words, diagrams, and other visual representations. Throughout the whole project, the main emphasis was the thesis. All the information in the paper and slideshow, on the board, and in the interview, pointed to and defended the thesis; this represented a majority of their grade. A few of this year’s historical figures, events, and places that “made an appearance” were: Nellie Bly, the Space Race, Dr. Seuss, Route 66, and Milton Hershey. Erica de Jong received the Overall Excellence award; she researched Milton Hershey. Sara Groen and Allison Bult received Excellence in Display for Route 66 and Dr. Seuss, respectively. Danny Bultema and Hope Zylstra received Excellence in Interview. Students did an outstanding job putting together their projects. They worked hard on this multi-curricular task; Science, Mathematics, History, Composition, Art, and Computer came together in projects that students could be proud of.

Spring 2016

T ournament C hampions …T wice !

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Photo: Tawnya Roodzant

Photo: Tawnya Roodzant

or the first time in DeMotte Christian School history, both 8th grade basketball teams won the Illiana Christian Conference Tournament in the same year. The 8th grade girls defeated Calvin Christian 35-23 in the championship game while the 8th grade boys defeated Highland Christian 47-39 in their championship game. Both teams led the entire game. Another fun fact about each of these teams is that they won their end-of-season tournaments in both 6th and 7th grade. Congratulations to both teams on their accomplishments and the way they represented DMC!

Where in the world is…?

The contest is designed to inspire students to be curious about the world. The above questions are just a couple that were asked of fourth through eighth grade class representatives who participated in January 14’s Bee. Students answered a variety of individual and group questions as they progressed through the competition. For the second year in a row, eighth grader Curtis Propst emerged as the victor. Close behind were Nolan McKim (8th) and Allese DeYoung (7th).

Could you answer the following questions? • Which Nordic capital was built on islands where the Baltic Sea meets Lake Malaren? • English is the official language of which country that lies ninety miles south of Cuba?

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Curtis completed an online test which qualified him to compete as a semifinalist in the State Bee which takes place on Friday, April 1 at IUPUI.

ach year thousands of schools in the United States, including DeMotte Christian, participate in the National Geographic Bee.

(Answers: Stockholm and Jamaica)

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Grandparents Welcomed

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oth campuses, Covenant Christian and DeMotte Christian, happily welcomed grandparents on Friday, November 6. Grandparents traveled from near and far to celebrate this special day with their grandchildren. Each building was full of grandparents which was a testimony of support for their grandchildren and the school they attend. The encouragement from grandparents and other family members is vital as we continue to carry out our mission to teach each child to be responsible and unique under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. At Covenant, grandparents joined students for a morning of refreshments, going to class with their grandchild, and observing intramurals. Grandparents were welcomed in the afternoon at DeMotte Christian. The event included a program where veterans were honored; students presented a poem and a variety of songs as a tribute to their grandparents. Grandparents then had the opportunity to visit classrooms and share in some activities with their grandchild(ren). It was a fantastic day that created memories for two generations. May His faithfulness continue for generations to come!

Service Dinner Supports Service Week

treated to music by Covenant’s Advanced Choir as well as the ISSMA octet. Guests heard from class representatives who highlighted experiences from last years’ Service Week and the importance of continuing this tradition. Sophomore presenters, Megan de Jong and Andrew Ingram, shared about the impact of serving throughout the Chicagoland area. Nicki DeBoer spoke on behalf of the junior class about their experience serving at Camp Tall Turf and Mel Trotter Ministries in Michigan. Senior Jake Bowers shared the impact of serving at Big Creek Missions in Kentucky. 2015 alumnae Hannah Lins and Tana Ryken returned to reflect on their experiences serving at Casa Bernabe in Guatemala.

Service is an integral part of Covenant Christian High School. Each year, a week of service is included in the curriculum as a way for students to corporately live out their faith. This year Service Week is April 25-29. On March 11, Covenant hosted their annual Service Dinner to raise funds for the trips. The event focused on this years’ Service Week verses, Philippians 2:3-4, which say, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others.” These verses were woven into the entire evening.

Through a free will offering, this year’s event raised approximately $13,000. Covenant thanks all those who support Service Week through their prayers and donations. Please continue to uplift our students, faculty, staff and chaperones as they prepare to go out and serve locally, regionally, and internationally.

Students played a vital role in this event. They assisted with set up and clean up, served the meal, and for the first time, the event was emceed by a student, Jake Bowers ’16. Students were also the focal point of the program. Attendees were 4

Spring 2016

CCHS Baseball Field Receives Upgrade

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unxsutawney Phil’s prognostication offered hope for an early spring this year. Covenant’s baseball team hopes he’s right. This past fall a sprinkler system was installed on the Covenant baseball field and the team is eager to get started on enjoying their upgraded field. We give a big “thank you” to the Athletic Sponsorship Fund for providing the financial backing to make this project a reality.

Photo: Rudy Tolkamp

Also, we owe a debt of gratitude to Site One Landscaping Supply and Walstra Landscaping for the actual installation. On behalf of the coaches and players, this upgrade will definitely be appreciated and will give us a home field we can be proud of while using our talents and abilities to glorify our Savior Jesus Christ. --Jeff Eenigenburg, assistant baseball coach and DMCS Board member

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CCHS P erforms A nne of G reen G ables

ovenant Christian High School theatre presented Anne of Green Gables on November 6 and 7. Sixteen students participated in the performance. The play is based on the well-known book by L.M. Montgomery. It follows the life and mishaps of the quick-tempered, red-haired orphan, Anne Shirley, as she goes to live with the elderly brother and sister, Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, on Prince Edward Island. As an imaginative child, Anne (Elyse Eenigenburg ’19) takes much joy in life and adapts quickly. Her talkativeness initially drives the prim, duty-driven Marilla (Allison Eades ’16) to distraction, while Matthew (Sam Patton ’16) falls for her charm immediately. Anne says they are "kindred spirits."

SAVE THE DATE FRIDAY KNIGHT LIGHTS

Attention all CCHS alumni – mark your calendar and plan to attend Friday Knight Lights on June 17. This event will feature alumni soccer games, and is a great time to catch up with former students while enjoying a little athletic competition (as participant or spectator). Save the date, spread the word and encourage others to attend! Stay tuned for more information.

The play recounts Anne's adventures in making a home; her friendship with Diana Barry, played by Erin Ryken ’17 (her best or "bosom friend" as Anne fondly calls her); her budding literary ambitions; her rivalry with classmate Gilbert Blythe (Kaiden Tolkamp ’17) who teases her about her red hair which leads Anne to smash her chalkboard over his head; and her domestic mishaps including her accidentally dyeing her hair green. Life was never dull when Anne was around! It was a fun production as the audience watched Anne and many other characters develop and mature. Thank you to all who came out to support CCHS students! 5

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“Peace Has Come, Immanuel”

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n December 15, over 1,000 family members and friends came together with the DMC students for the presentation of their Christmas program “Peace Has Come, Immanuel.” This evening featured a retelling of the Christmas story through traditional carols and songs sung by the students in solos, ensembles, and group numbers. A number of junior high students provided leadership throughout the program as

they narrated. Mrs. Post’s first grade class continued the tradition of reciting Luke 2 from memory along with hand motions. Mrs. Friend’s preschool classes did a special number which included bell-adorned gloves that jingled as they sang. The evening ended with the lights being dimmed as students and audience sang “Silent Night.” What a powerful way to close the program!

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eMotte Christian’s Beginning Band (5th grade), Intermediate Band (6th grade) and Advanced Band (7-12th grades) performed a Winter Concert for a gym full of family, friends and supporters on December 3. The concert showcased the students’ musical abilities and their continued learning and growth. The concert provided a wide variety of songs that ushered attendees into the Christmas season. Beginning Band helped the audience “March Into Christmas” while Intermediate Band took them through the “Three Themes from ‘The Nutcracker,’” and Advanced Band took everyone on a “Sleigh Ride” before closing the program by showing the audience the “Parade of Bumbling Soldiers.” It was a wonderful beginning to the Advent and Christmas seasons.

Sounds of the Season

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Spring 2016

Save the Dates: DMC Spring Musical

Singing in the Season

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very other spring, junior high students perform a musical that allows them to utilize their theatrical and musical gifts. This year, the students will perform Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. on Thursday, April 21 and Friday, April 22 at 7p.m. The story takes place in a magical kingdom fathoms below, where the beautiful young mermaid Ariel longs to leave her ocean home to live in a world above. But first, she will have to defy her father King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch Ursula, and convince Prince Eric that she’s the girl with the enchanting voice. Plan to support DMC students and attend this family-friendly performance.

n December 10, Covenant’s choirs and the Instrumental Ensemble helped concertgoers transition from fall to winter and prepare for the Christmas season. Advanced Choir and Covenant’s Chorus performed a variety of songs including traditional carols, hymns and spirituals that showcased the students' talents. The Chorus invited the crowd to not only “Come and See the Child” but to honor and worship Him. They also reminded attendees that Jesus is a wonderful child. Advanced Choir shared a beautiful medley which described the wondrous love of Christ. The Instrumental Ensemble provided two settings of “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” as well as “A Christmas Song.” A highlight from the concert was the Chorus’ performance of “Riu, Riu Chiu” a Spanish Christmas carol.

CCHS to Perform Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

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ave the dates, invite your friends and family, and plan to attend Covenant’s production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast on April 8 and 9 at 7:30 p.m. The audience will be transported into the heart of provincial life and the story of a special girl named Belle. When her father Maurice becomes lost in the woods on the way to the fair, he seeks shelter in an old castle, but is captured by the ferocious master, the Beast. To save her father’s life, Belle gives up her freedom and takes his place as captive. Belle’s taming of the Beast, with the help of his enchanted servants, will enthrall audiences of all ages. 7

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CCHS Varsity Boys’ Basketball

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his past basketball season our varsity and JV teams consisted of 18 hard working young men. We were led by our two seniors, Jake Bowers and Cody Stegenga. We would like to thank them for their leadership and dedication to our team. A highlight of our season was beating Caston for our first IHSAA sectional win.

With the competitive schedule we played, our final varsity record was 10-15. We achieved personal and team records this past season and look forward to building on these in the future. At the beginning and end of the season I shared with the team a verse that represents our team—Colossians 2:6-7. It says, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives rooted in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” Officials and visiting fans have been heard commenting on how our team presents themselves. As a team, we would like to thank the fans who supported us all season. --Coach John Heerema

CCHS JV Boys’ Basketball

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e had eleven JV players contributing this season. A highlight was participating in a JV tourney in Goshen, IN. This tourney was put on by Clinton Christian for a scholarship in honor of a former student who passed away from Cystic Fibrosis. Our final record for the season was 9-14. This group of boys continued to battle even after a season-ending injury to Andrew Ingram. We are looking forward to having him back next season. We would like to thank our managers, Josh Cohen and Ethan Vander Tuin, for their help this season. We would also like to thank Jill Struble, our athletic trainer, who attends all of our practices and games. --Coach John Heerema

Want to support the DMCS Athletic programs? Individual and corporate sponsorship options are available. For more information, contact Dennis Lins, athletic director, at [email protected]. 8

Spring 2016

DMC 6th Grade Boys Basketball

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he 6th grade boys had a season of learning and growing. We spent a lot of time developing our basketball skills, especially dribbling, shooting, and using the bounce pass. The boys learned how to play aggressively, especially on the defensive end. Despite winning just three games, the boys put forth a lot of effort and were able to play with some tough teams. The effort and dedication in practice really helped us grow as a team. A highlight for the year was the game at Lansing Christian where we put together a complete game offensively and defensively to earn a big win. Great job team! --Coach Dan Weaver

DMC 7th Boys Basketball

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he seventh grade boys’ basketball season was one filled with a lot of hard work as well as some highs and lows. The season started with learning how to play together and improve their individual skills. As the season progressed there was significant individual improvement and also in their level of play as a team. We found ourselves competing well and putting ourselves in position to get some wins. As we came into 2016 we were able to finish the season with a home win over Protestant Reformed Christian followed by a win over Calvary Academy in our tournament. We finished our season with a close five point loss to Kankakee Valley. I am thankful for all of the hard work the boys put in over the course of the season and for the tremendous support from parents and the entire DMC community! –Coach Troy Nanninga DMC 8th Grade Boys’ Basketball

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or the eleven 8th grade boys on the basketball team, the hard work and dedication they put in over the past year paid off. They had a great year, finishing 15-2, and winning the Illiana Christian Conference Tourney. We emphasized two things at every practice and at every game: (1) keep the ball moving on offense, and (2) team defense – guard your man and always be there to help your teammate guard his man. The outstanding character these young men have shown on the court over the past three years is a reflection of their parents, their school and their Lord. --Coach Robb Walstra

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CCHS Varsity Girls’ Basketball

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he varsity girls’ basketball team finished off a very enjoyable season winning five of their last six games; they ended with thirteen total wins. They began the season by taking the championship of the 3rd annual Covenant Tip-Off Tourney. The Lady Knights also traveled to Grace College over Christmas break for a two-day 3-game tournament, but fell short in the final game to finish as the runnerVarsity and JV Girls’ Basketball teams up. This year’s senior night game was against a much taller Heritage Christian team and was dedicated to seniors Renae Buiter and Frankie Slayton, both of whom contributed strongly this season in rebounding and helped in getting the victory that evening. With help from post players Kaylin VanderMeer and Katelyn Porte, this year’s team was able to establish a new record for most rebounds in a season. Individually, Renae set multiple records at CCHS both in rebounding for a single-season and career rebounds. Sophomore Maria Nanninga broke the single-season scoring record with 389 points and averaging 16.2 per game with assists coming from guards Nicki DeBoer and Janelle Heerema. This team of young ladies showed very good sportsmanship through their attitudes and efforts and represented CCHS very well. What a joy to see them using their gifts on and off the court. Thank you to all the parents, fans, and assistant coaches Sherry Schurman and Ryan Kikkert for all their time and support throughout this past season. -- Coach Dave Heerema

CCHS JV Girls’ Basketball

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t was another fun year for Covenant JV girls’ basketball. We enjoyed a much different team than last year as many players moved up to the varsity level. This year’s JV team was led by returners Madelyn Buiter, Megan de Jong, and Katelyn Porte. The freshman class consisted of Ashley Flores, Grace DeBoer, Lindsay Zeldenrust, and Hannah Kopka. Sophomores Brooke Sheets and Macy Williams rounded out our group of newcomers. With many new players, it was a slow start to our season, but with lots of hard work and commitment, improvement kept coming. As the season progressed, we not only saw our improvements show in JV games, but also when the girls played minutes in varsity games. The two major highlights of our season were Macy getting cleared to join us late in the year and also seeing our hard work pay off by winning our last two games! A special thank you to the players for their hard work and good attitudes as well as the parents for their time and encouragement! --Coach Ryan Kikkert 10

Spring 2016

DMC 6th Grade Girls’ Basketball

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MC’s sixth grade girls’ basketball team had a great start to their careers. They finished the season 11-2 overall. After dropping their first game, the girls went on to only lose one more all season. They also were able to win the Lansing tournament beating Highland in the first game 17-4, and Calvin in the finals 20-6. Considering it was really their first year of organized competitive basketball, the girls really came a long way. It was exciting watching how they played together as a team and cheered each other on. Way to go girls! --Coach Tim Zylstra

DMC 7th Grade Girls’ Basketball

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he 7th grade girls had a great season. We focused on improving our skills, understanding the game, and working as a team. This season also proved that we could win close games. This really helped increase our confidence and competitive spirit. A few highlights include winning our very first game of the season against Calvary Academy; a low-scoring, close win at Highland Christian; and having two Eagles place in the top three of the Free Throw Competition at our end-of-the year tournament. Sydnie Bakker placed first and Allese DeYoung placed third. It was fun to watch the girls improve as the season progressed and I am thankful for their energy, spunk and patience with me as their coach. --Coach Kara Nanninga DMC 8th Grade Girls’ Basketball

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he 8th grade girls’ basketball team finished the regular season 12-3. The Eagles' losses all came early in the year. One memorable game was on January 25 when we played Calvin Christian. After going back and forth the entire game, we tied the game at the buzzer, and won by one point in overtime. The girls gave great effort and really had a drive to compete. During the tournament, the Eagles came out aggressive and got off to a quick start in all three of their tournament games. They defeated Crown Point Christian in the first game, Highland Christian in their second game, and met up with Calvin in the final game. On February 20, the Eagles passed well and took care of the ball during Calvin’s full court press. They defeated Calvin 35-23 to win the Illiana Tournament; it was a great way to end a successful season! --Coach Kelli VanDuyne 11

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Upcoming Dates to Remember April 5 April 8 & 9 April 14 April 18 - 22 April 19 April 22 & 23 April 25 - 29 May 5 May 5 May 6 May 13 May 16 May 17

Annual Society Meeting CCHS Musical Math Triathlon at Trinity Christian Education Week Young Author’s Festival at Trinity DMC Musical CCHS Service Week Ascension Day National Day of Prayer DMC Walk-A-Thon DMC Friday Night Frenzy CCHS Band/Choir Concert DMC 8th Grade Banquet

May 18 May 19 May 20 May 25 May 26 May 26 May 27 May 30 June 17 June 18 July 21 Aug 1

DMC 8th Grade to Great America Kindergarten Program Preschool Last Day CCHS Last Day of School DMC Last Day of School DMC Graduation CCHS Graduation Memorial Day CCHS Friday Knight Lights 25th Annual Golf Outing DMC and CCHS Registration DMC and CCHS Registration