It happened. Our youngest child, Sofia, just began her first year of university in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Heidi went with her last week to settle in and go through the usual orientation for first year students and parents. It’s an emotional time for us. Obviously, there are mixed feelings: we are sad that she is [...]
When I was growing up, I remember some of my greatest fears involved conflict. Conflict between loved ones, conflict between members of larger communities, conflict at a more regional, national, or global level, or as was mostly the case—conflict in my own life, big or small. When I was young there were global conflicts such [...]
Do you remember Kid President? It was a small collection of YouTube videos hosted by a young boy on a mission to help kids and grown-ups change the world together. This collection became one of the most watched videos on the planet about 8 years ago. Brad Montague was the brainchild behind these videos as [...]
At a recent Leadership Team meeting, middle school principal, Tym Berger, (who is now the resident historian on the Leadership Team) shared a really challenging time in the life of ACS’ history. He shared a moment from the ACS’ 50th anniversary book entitled; “New Growth from the Ashes” written by Jack Van Dyke. Jack was [...]
I dug up some old digital photos one Sunday morning this summer. We actually had all our kids together gathered around the TV for a worship service and afterwards I played these old photos as a post-service montage. We reminisced and relived the moments of when the kids were very young. We noticed that many [...]
I love being at the elementary campus right before recess. The anticipation of going outside, getting fresh air, and being able to run and play with friends is palpable. I would dare say that for a high percentage of students, recess is a highlight of their day. Especially on a beautiful sunny day. Carefree I [...]
When I was young, my family listened fervently to James Ward. James was a Christian contemporary singer/songwriter, popular in the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s. He also happened to be a friend to our family by association. He wasn’t in the “famous” category like other Christian contemporaries of that time: Michael W Smith, Amy Grant, [...]
I enjoy puzzles. For puzzles that are quite big (like 1000 pieces), one needs time and patience—both of which I rarely find I have. However, when I do, I like to puzzle. It keeps my mind occupied and it scratches my “need to get things accomplished” itch I often have. I recently started an extremely [...]
Like many of you, I am extremely grateful for the ability to flip the calendar over and dream/hope for a better tomorrow. As we have all said and reflected on many times, 2020 has been quite the year. And…as all of us are keenly aware, what was with us in 2020 is still with us [...]
Recently at a meeting I chose to show a video entitled, “Flourishing.” The video keyed on staff to work towards flourishing. From a series called, “Wisdom For The Way” from Christian Schools Canada, these videos encourage Christian schools to engage their staff in devotions during this pandemic. It was engaging, relevant, and something that I thought [...]
