2024 CEA Convention: Full Schedule

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10:45am EDT

Book Buzz: Picture Book Edition

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

This fast-paced session will introduce you to the best new picture books and give you some suggestions for how to use them in your classroom and enhance your curriculum.

Chairperson

Tricia Kiepert

Elementary Principal, Hudsonville Christian School

Tricia Kiepert is the elementary principal at Hudsonville Christian School. She is an avid reader of children's books and loves sharing the great titles she finds with others.

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
Auditorium 1st floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Book Buzz

10:45am EDT

Choral Reading Session

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

146

Enjoy the opportunity to sing through some of our favorite choral literature. All who love to sing are welcome, and directors are encouraged to bring a song to share!

Chairperson

Sarah Horton

5-12 Band Director, 6 - 12 Choirs, Grandville Calvin Christian Schools

Sarah and Karel lead the music department at Calvin Christian Middle and High School, and share the teaching responsibilities with the younger and developing choirs.

Karel de Waal Malefyt

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
146 Choir room, 1st floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Music

10:45am EDT

Education and the Christian Imagination

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

243 + 245

Chairperson

Jeff DeVries

Illiana Christian High School

Speakers

Peter Jonker

Minister of Preaching, LaGrave Ave Christian Reformed Church

Peter Jonker is the minister of preaching at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church. He's been a minister in the Christian Reformed Church for over 30 years, and is the author of the book, Preaching in Pictures. He is married to Linda Jonker who teaches kindergarten at Grand Rapids... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
243 + 245 Classroom, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Reformed World and Life View

10:45am EDT

Enjoying the Bible: How to Equip Students to Read with Imagination (Not Just For Information)

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

222 + 228

How many of our students - and us! - read the Bible primarily for "information" (asking what does this passage "mean" and how do I "apply" it)? Let's experience the Bible in a way that better accounts for its poetry, songs, and apocalypses; as a Spirit-inspired work of art meant to stir our imaginations, move us emotionally, and captivate our hearts, not just our heads.

Presentation

Chairperson

Abrianne Castaneda

Grandville Calvin Christian School

Speakers

Ben

Tameling

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
222 + 228 Classroom, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Reformed World and Life View
Area Bible Teachers

10:45am EDT

Faith Of Our Fathers.....LIVING Still!

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

137

Join this father/daughter duo in interactive, guided dialogue around the beauty and calling of Christian education. Together let's learn from the past and lean into the future as we seek to continue to bring glory to our God in growing this next generation of Kingdom Workers.
Join Miska Rynsburger and her dad, Ken Kuipers, in a participatory conversational jaunt as we look back over the past seventy years of Christian Schools, while at the same time, exploring the future. At the 1934 National Union of Christian Schools (NUCS) Convention in Englewood, IL, Dr W. Harry Jellema shared concern that if ‘Christian Schools continue to be outgrowths of group custom (Dutch subculture)…the life and world view will lose its vitality and Christians Schools will cease to be’. The implication is for those who follow to be sure that they are able to articulate the mission and flourish as a relevant school for families today.

Speakers

Ken Kuipers

Retired, Former principal at Holland Christian Schools

Ken and Miska are a father/daughter duo who have been learning and serving in Christian education for nearly 70 years combined. They enjoy sitting together over a cup of coffee summer mornings reflecting on the journey of Christian education, the challenges and proposing growth ideas... Read More →

Miska Rynsburger

Principal, Holland Christian Schools

Chairperson

Kevin Sall

Ada Christian School

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
137 Art room, 1st floor (Koetje)

Session

Audience General
Subject Reformed World and Life View

10:45am EDT

Gen Z and Faith: What is really going on?

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

312

There has been a lot of conversation about Gen Z, the Nones, and the shrinking church in North America. What's true and what's not, and how does that impact our work with students?

Chairperson

Clay Lubbers

Middle School Science Teacher, Byron Center Christian School

Clay is an outdoor enthusiast and is working towards integrating more outdoor learning into his middle school science curriculum. He's had a passion for the outdoors as long as he has been alive and he longs for kids to see the story of creation in creation itself.

Speakers

Mary Hulst

University Pastor, Calvin University

Mary Hulst has served as the University Pastor of Calvin University since 2009. She is a graduate of Calvin College, Calvin Theological Seminary and her PhD is from the University of Illinois. A native of Holland, Michigan, (Go Maroons!), Mary loves the outdoors, hiking, kayaking... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
312 Fitness studio, 3rd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Reformed World and Life View

10:45am EDT

Implementation of PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports) within a Christian Framework

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

240

You will receive an overview of how to implement positive behavior interventions and supports school wide with a guide of how to get started, the research behind why it works to enhance the positivity of school climate and culture and the benefits it has on students' and adults' mental health. You will see an example of all of this implemented within a Christian framework.

Chairperson

Jen Menefee

Muskegon Christian School

Speakers

Bridget Ehlich

PBIS Coordinator / Spanish Teacher, Muskegon Christian and Grand Haven Christian

Bridget Ehlich comes to us with experience teaching in a Spanish Immersion classroom setting, working as a PBIS implementation administrator and now as a Spanish Specials teacher and PBIS coordinator. She has successfully led the implementation of Positive Behavior Intervention and... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
240 History and Bible Commons, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Counseling

10:45am EDT

Lessons Learned in CSI FOCUS Accreditation Processes

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

257

Learn about Holland Christian’s journey through the new CSI FOCUS accreditation process--lessons learned in the process of implementing and the impact on the organization. Holland Christian worked through the School Improvement Team to implement a faith integration taxonomy. This session will include practical do's and cautions for considering a FOCUSed visit.

Speakers

Eric Forseth

Head of Schools, Holland Christian Schools

Eric Forseth is entering his fifth year as Holland Christian Head of Schools. Eric served as the Dordt University Provost for seven years, Superintendent at Nampa Christian Schools, and Vice President at universities in Idaho and Ohio. Eric has been married for 40 years to Kim... Read More →

Dan Vos

Registrar / Assessment, Holland Christian Schools

Currently serving at Holland Christian Schools

Chairperson

Marc Verkaik

Kalamazoo Christian School

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
257 Classroom, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Administration

10:45am EDT

Navigating Change

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

255

Our world and our lives are changing rapidly. Sometimes the change is your idea and sometimes you are impacted by other's decisions. Come learn how to navigate change intentionally both personally and in your school.

Speakers

Ben VanderKodde

Grace Adventures

Ben is the Vice President of advancement at Grace Adventures in Mears, MI. Grace Adventures works with schools, sports teams, churches, nonprofits, and other organizations using experiential education. They facilitate high-adventure activities as well as team building.

Chairperson

Jill Haan

Northern Michigan Christian School

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
255 Clasroom, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Counseling

10:45am EDT

Ready or Not: Teacher Leadership

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

113

Teachers today often take on extra leadership responsibilities in addition to their teaching duties, thus changing the role of and relationships between teachers, administrators, and support staff. This presentation will provide an overview of teacher leadership and the dynamic between leaders and followers within a school community.

Chairperson

Meghan VanLente

Kalamazoo Christian Schools

Speakers

Kelly Lenarz

Dean of Education, Trinity Christian College

Dr. Kelly Lenarz serves as Dean of Education and Associate Professor of Education at Trinity Christian College. She is passionate about teacher recruitment and retention. This passion is what drives her research in the areas of teacher preparation and teacher leadership.

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
113 Teacher's Lounge, 1st floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Professional Development
Area Trinity Chrisitan College Staff

10:45am EDT

Reformed Refreshment

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

253

Have you considered the spiritual significance of your teaching efforts? Do you align your work with the principles of the kingdom of God? Do you approach your work with true passion and dedication? It is often suggested that educators must choose between prioritizing their students or the subject matter, but have you ever thought about the fact that, in reality, you are teaching others about God? These questions prompt deep reflection, especially for those teaching within institutions with a Reformed tradition. Peter’s goal in this session is to inspire you to rekindle your passion for teaching and to recognize the profound impact of educating others from a Reformed Christian perspective.

Chairperson

Sarah Vasquez

Grand Haven Christian School

Speakers

Peter Boonstra

Principal, Illiana Christian High School

Peter served as a lawn mower, egg candler, garbage man, and wood cutter before serving forty years a principal in Reformed Christian schools in South Dakota, New Jersey, Michigan, Illinois and Indiana. Did I choose this adventure? Or has God directed my steps? Let's get that ri... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
253 Classroom, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Reformed World and Life View

10:45am EDT

Storytelling as Pedagogy

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

230

In a world of pedagogy options and strategies, we will discuss the ancient and modern skill of storytelling and how it can harness the imagination to deeply engage a topic. As good as learning targets and end goals are, rarely when cracking a great novel does the author tell you the end of the book, or the goals they have for you in your reading. Instead they take you on a journey of discovery and imagination. It is in that journey that you are drawn in and discover meaning. We will wonder if storytelling in the classroom can do the same.

Chairperson

Vicki Huizenga

Highland Christian School

Speakers

David Mosterd

Bible Teacher, Grand Rapids Christian High School

David Mosterd is in his 19th year in Christian Education and second year as a Bible teacher at Grand Rapids Christian High School, in Grand Rapids Michigan. He is married to Nicky and they have five boys. He is passionate about being a good dad and husband to his family, a friend... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
230 Math and English Commons, 2nd floor

Session

10:45am EDT

String Orchestra Reading Session

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

142

We will be reading some new, some favorites and some treasures of oldy but goodies. Please bring your instrument along and a few of your favorite gems to read along with other string educators.

Speakers

Sara Jager

Orchestra Director, Unity Christian High School

Sara Jager is the orchestra director at Unity Christian High School and Hudsonville Christian School for the past 22 years. Jager was also one of the directors for one of the youth orchestras at St. Cecilia Music Society. She has been a clinician for various clinics through area middle... Read More →

Chairperson

Nikki Durni

Central Wisconsin Christian School

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
142 Band room, 1st floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Music

10:45am EDT

The Art of Reflection: Equipping us to Connect Students and Learning to God's Story

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

121

John Dewey, known for many things including his advocacy for experiential learning, acknowledged that “we don’t learn from experiences, we learn from reflecting on experiences.” Despite the strong connection between reflection and learning, many of us struggle to invite students into meaningful reflection – this session will equip us.

Chairperson

Rebecca Mesbergen

Allendale Christian School

Speakers

Darryl DeBoer

Director of Teaching for Transformation, Center for Advancement of Christian Education

Darryl DeBoer is both the Director of Teaching for Transformation and the K-12 Director of Education at Surrey Christian School. Beyond these roles, he listens to a lot of Taylor Swift and Johnny Cash as he drives his kids to all their activities. Always wishing he was fi... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
121 Art room, 1st floor (VanHaitsma)

Session

Audience General
Subject Reformed World and Life View

11:55am EDT

RT - Administrators

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT

214

Round Table Discussion with other CEA Administrators

Chairperson

Miles Colago

High School Principal, Holland Christian High School

Miles Colago currently serves as the Principal of Holland Christian High School. Miles originally is from Anoka, MN where he attended Anoka High School. He earned his BA in English and Secondary Education with a minor in International Development Studies and MA in Educational... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT
214 Classroom, 2nd floor

Round Table

Audience General
Subject Administration

11:55am EDT

RT - Art Teachers

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT

121

Round Table discussion with other Art Teachers.

Chairperson

Roberta VanHaitsma

Art Teacher, South Christian High School

Roberta has taught Art for 36 years, 33 of them at South Christian. She is a teacher, an artist and an author who values the energy of adolescents as well as their unique outlooks on life.

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT
121 Art room, 1st floor (VanHaitsma)

Round Table

Audience General
Subject Art

11:55am EDT

RT - Chapel Planners

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT

226

Routh Table discussion with other Chapel Planners.

Chairperson

Julie Van Oordt

Speakers

Julie VanOordt

Young 5's Teacher, Chapel Coordinator, Allendale Christian School

Julie is recently retired after the 2024 school year after teaching for 39 years in both special education and regular education. She has a cottage in Holland that she enjoys spending time at during the summer and spends lots of time with her five grandchildren.

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT
226 Classroom, 2nd floor

Round Table

Audience General
Subject Reformed World and Life View

11:55am EDT

RT - Instructional Coaches

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT

211

Round Table disucssion with other Instructional Coaches.

Chairperson

Jen Rysdam

Director of Curriuculum and Instruction, Hudsonville Christian School

Jen Rysdam currently serves as the Director of Curriculum & Instruction at Hudsonville Christian School. Her professional experiences include classroom teacher, instructional coach, literacy consultant, college professor and student teacher supervisor.

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT
211 Classroom, 2nd floor

Round Table

Audience General
Subject Professional Development

11:55am EDT

RT - K - 12th Grade Music Teachers

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT

123

Round Table discussion with CEA K - 12th Grade Music Teachers.

Chairperson

Sarah Horton

5-12 Band Director, 6 - 12 Choirs, Grandville Calvin Christian Schools

Sarah and Karel lead the music department at Calvin Christian Middle and High School, and share the teaching responsibilities with the younger and developing choirs.

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT
123 Classroom, 1st floor

Round Table

Audience General
Subject Music

11:55am EDT

RT - Librarians

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT

224

Round Table discussion with other Librarians.

Chairperson

Mary Jo Staal

Elementary Media Specialist, Hudsonville Christian School

Mary Jo started her career as a classroom teacher and then followed her passion for books into the role of librarian at Hudsonville Christian School. She loves connecting children with just the right book.

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT
224 Classroom, 2nd floor

Round Table

Audience General
Subject Librarians

11:55am EDT

RT - Outdoor Education Teachers

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT

213

Round Table discussion with Outdoor Education Teachers.

Chairperson

Clay Lubbers

Middle School Science Teacher, Byron Center Christian School

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT
213 Classroom, 2nd floor

Round Table

Audience General
Subject Outdoor Education

11:55am EDT

RT - Physical Education Teachers and Athletics

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT

225

Round Table Discussion with other Physical Education Teachers and Athletics

Chairperson

Curt Copeland

PE and Strength Teacher - Football Coach, South Christian High School

Curt is a passionate and experienced teacher/coach/administrator at the high school level. His love of establishing and developing relationships with others is his calling.

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:55am - 12:55pm EDT
225 Classroom, 2nd floor

Round Table

Audience General
Subject Physical Education

1:50pm EDT

AI Tools for Teachers

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT

222 + 228

Explore the best free and freemium AI teacher apps to create and modify content, save time, and support every student. Explore apps to create one of a kind images, and craft chatbot prompts to generate amazing content. Learn how to transform your lessons so they incorporate the use of AI.

Presentation

Speakers

Andy Mann

Instructional Technology Consultant and Director REMC 4, Muskegon Area ISD

Andy Mann is the Ed Tech Consultant at the MAISD in Muskegon. He is a Google Certified Trainer and a two-time recipient of the ISTE Making It Happen Award for technology leadership. And presents across Michigan and nationally on AI tools and using virtual reality in the classroom... Read More →

Chairperson

Emily Sloterbeek

Zeeland Christian School

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
222 + 228 Classroom, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Technology

1:50pm EDT

Cancelled - An Introduction to Building Financial Security

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT

137

An introduction into what someone early in their career should be thinking about as they begin to build for a secure financial future. This is also applicable to those further into their working years who want to consider how they are doing. The focus will be on creating a sound retirement plan.

Chairperson

Annalise Larson

1st Grade Spanish Immersion Teacher, Grandville Calvin Christian School

Annalise Larson graduated with her K-12 Spanish Education bachelors from Hope College in 2009. She has been an immersion educator for 11 years, working with both middle school and elementary school ages. She loves immersing her students not only in the Spanish language, but also exposing... Read More →

Speakers

John Bolt

U.S. Managing Director, CSI Christian Education Employee Benefit Team

John has served as US Managing Director since January 2023. Prior to this, he was the Deputy Executive Director, Chief Financial Officer for the Christian Reformed Church in North America since 2003. He has significant experience in the corporate world including Vice President... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
137 Art room, 1st floor (Koetje)

Session

Audience General
Subject Professional Development

1:50pm EDT

Forming Cultures of Sabbath and Joy for Teachers and Students

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT

146

Feeling weary? Isolated? In need of encouragement? This session provides mindsets and practices designed to create greater degrees of rest, play, and connection within schools and classrooms—so that you and your students alike might find your time together more faith-building and life-giving!

Speakers

Kevin Taylor

Founder and Director, Wellspring Christian Education

Kevin is passionate about helping schools put faith into practice because young people need to know Jesus. He holds a doctorate in Religious Studies, a masters in Curriculum and Instruction, and has taught for over two decades in Christian schools in Guatemala, Kansas, and Colora... Read More →

Chairperson

Christina Welch

Unity Christian High School

CEA 2024 Handout Kevin M. Taylor pdf

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
146 Choir room, 1st floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Reformed World and Life View

1:50pm EDT

Getting Kids to Actually Listen to and Learn From Each Other

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT

312

Students often talk past each other or spend their time waiting to talk instead of really listening to others. This session will provide you with Monday morning ideas to increase accountability and improve communication in your classroom community.

Chairperson

Michelle Klooster

Second Grade Teacher, Moline Christian School

Michelle has been teaching second grade at Moline Christian for about 5 years. She is married, has two grown daughters and two grandchildren.

Speakers

Brandon Helder

Teacher, Grand Rapids Christian School

Brandon is currently the tallest third grader at Grand Rapids Christian Schools and has been teaching there for 8 years. He has also taught 5th grade at Holland Christian and 2nd grade at Hudsonville Christian Schools. The longer Brandon teaches, the more he realizes how much he has... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
312 Fitness studio, 3rd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Professional Development

1:50pm EDT

Honey Bee Fidelity

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT

113

This session highlights the life cycle and lifestyle of the honey bee while incorporating the ways honey bees exhibit faithfulness to their hives and to each other. Are there lessons we can learn from the humble honey bee?

Chairperson

Clay Lubbers

Middle School Science Teacher, Byron Center Christian School

Speakers

Don Snoeyink

Thornapple Woodlands

Don has a passion for "opening people's eyes" to the awe and wonder of nature; specifically beekeeping, maple syrup, and fishing. His contagious enthusiasm for God's creation is evident in his fun, fast paced and informative speaking style.

CEA Convention 2024 Speech Handout docx

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
113 Teacher's Lounge, 1st floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Science
Area Outdoor Education

1:50pm EDT

Leading and Educating for Unity

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT

120

How do we lead in joy? How do we lead in courage? How do we lead knowing God has the victory, for our graduates and the broader kingdom? How do we lead in faithfulness, while knowing God has always been perfectly faithful and kept His covenant with us?

Chairperson

Jennifer Lewis

Western MI Christian High School

Speakers

Greg Elzinga

Interim President, Calvin University

The mission of Christian education remains crucial—and it relies first on God’s faithfulness, and then on a spirit of unity among our teams. Through Deuteronomy 7:9 and examples from his own formative journey in education, Elzinga will encourage attendees and offer practical ways... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
120 Science Commons, 1st floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Professional Development

1:50pm EDT

Reclaiming the Courage to Teach: Empowering Self and Empowering Others

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT

260

Teaching is wonderful and beautiful and hard and complex. There are days when all is as it should be in the classroom, and there are days it can leave us questioning who we are and why we do what we do. In this session we will discuss how having a strong sense of identity, purpose and security as teachers and as people made in the image of God can spur us on in our work, and how we can help each other remember who we are and whose we are.

Speakers

Matthew Beimers

Director of School Leadership, Assistant Professor of Education, Dordt University

Matthew is an Associate Professor of Education and Director of School Leadership at Dordt University. He has previously served Christian schools in Montana and British Columbia in a variety of roles, including teacher, coach, assistant principal and principal. He began teaching in... Read More →

Chairperson

Juan Herrera

Fremont Christian School

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
260 Fireplace Common, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Professional Development
Area Dordt University Staff

1:50pm EDT

Teacher Certification in Michigan

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT

253

Presenters will review current Michigan teacher certification requirements, including how to obtain and renew the Standard certificate, advance to the Professional certificate, and add additional endorsements. Recent changes to Michigan's teaching certificate structure and flexibilities due to the teacher shortage will be discussed.

Speakers

Brian Bolt

Education Dean at Calvin University, Calvin University

Dr. Brian Bolt, Dean of Education and Shari Brouwer, Teacher Certification Coordinator join you today from the Calvin University School of Education.

Shari Brouwer

Teacher Certification Coordinator, Calvin University

Chairperson

Lynette Lugo

Kalamazoo Christian School

CEA 2024 pptx

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
253 Classroom, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Professional Development

1:50pm EDT

The Beauty of the Historic Christian Sexual Ethic

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT

230

Have Christians been taught the deepest understanding of what the Bible says about sex, gender and therefore marriage? If not, why? Through this dialogue we will trace the depth and beauty of Scripture from Genesis to Revelation to highlight God’s greater truth we are meant to point to.

Chairperson

Deb Feenstra

Holland Christian Schools

Speakers

Louis Phillips

Director of Church Relations, The Center for Faith, Sexuality and Gender

Louis (Lou) attended Grove City College and graduated with a Bachelor of Science. He also received his certificate of theological studies from the University of Oxford (Wycliffe Hall) and was trained at The OCCA The Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics.

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
230 Math and English Commons, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Counseling

3:00pm EDT

Being Change Agents in a Changing World

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

120

We are Christian educators who live and teach in a world whose messages are in direct contradiction to Kingdom values. This workshop will give educators the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively communicate with students (and parents) who are being influenced and discipled by a distorted and broken culture.

Speakers

Jason Perry

Campus Pastor, Chicago Christian High School

Jason Perry is the Lead Pastor Living Springs Community Church (Glenwood, IL). He is also the founder and director of Oak Tree Leadership. Pastor Perry has been married to Dr. Sharon Perry for 36 years and they are parents of 2 adult children.

Chairperson

Christine White

Chicago Christian Schools

CEA Workshop Handout JPerry pdf

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
120 Science Commons, 1st floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Reformed World and Life View

3:00pm EDT

Defusing your Classroom

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

137

During this session, we will explore the ways that bias and misinformation or misreading a situation can lead to unintended negativity in the classroom. Practical suggestions that can be easily implemented will given out.

Chairperson

Laura Kamp

SW Chicago Chrsitian School

Speakers

Cristin Lenters

School Social Worker, Chicago Christian High School

Cristin has been a school counselor/social worker for 24 years. She loves the opportunity to discuss the profession with other Christian Counselors

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
137 Art room, 1st floor (Koetje)

Session

Audience General
Subject Counseling

3:00pm EDT

HIIT Stations and Core Workout

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

262

Take a break from learning and move your body! We will be doing timed stations to get your heart rate up and your blood pumping. We will also focus on core work.

Speakers

Nicki Chandler

Fitness Teacher

Nicki has been on the fitness platform for over 23 years. She has a national certification as well as multiple other personal training certifications, cycle certifications, she is CPR and AED certified, and she has recently stepped into life and development coaching. Movement and... Read More →

Chairperson

Sheila Dokter

Holland Christian School

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
262 Weight Room, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Fitness

3:00pm EDT

Let's Play a Round - Bringing Disc Golf to the School Campus

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

113

When South Christian acquired its current property, a group of us worked to bring a disc golf course to the school grounds. This session will chronicle our journey, offer advice and ideas regarding design, and then (if the weather cooperates) spend time on the course playing and explaining the choices we made.

Chairperson

Don Wubben

Speakers

Robert DeWeerd

Kent Walstra

Science Teacher, South Christian High School

Kent and some other teachers worked to bring a disc golf course to South Christian High School when they moved to their current location.

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
113 Teacher's Lounge, 1st floor

Session

Audience General
Audience Physical Education
Subject Fitness
Area Administration

3:00pm EDT

More Than Just Letters: How letter writing to someone in incarceration changed community in one elementary classroom

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

255

Based in a Christian school, this presentation highlights a letter writing relationship between third grade students and the teacher's incarcerated uncle. Through a year-long partnership, students were able to grapple with incarceration, race, and understand a wider sense of Christian community--one that included Uncle Billy.

Speakers

Rebecca Witte

Assisstant Professor of Education, Hope College

Becky is a former Christian educator now professor whose research and passion explores possibilities todeepen and widen understanding of Christian community in education. She is particularly interested in the intersection of Christian education, elementary literacy and social studies... Read More →

Chairperson

Mary Jo Staal

Elementary Media Specialist, Hudsonville Christian School

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
255 Clasroom, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General

3:00pm EDT

Needle Felting - Art Therapy (for you & Your Students)

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

121

Before you think, ‘I can’t even draw a stick figure!’, consider exercising your creativity and learning a new skill, needle felting! Needle felting is a slow and calming art form. In this studio style session, we will learn how to needle felt and talk about ways needle felting can be used in your classroom!

Chairperson

Jim Kamphuis

Illiana Christian High School

Speakers

Jaimie Sinnema

Legacy Christian School

Jaimie is the 3rd - 8th Grade Art Teacher at Legacy Christian School.

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
121 Art room, 1st floor (VanHaitsma)

Session

Audience General
Subject Art

3:00pm EDT

Person Guided Planning in Inclusive Schools

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

260

Inclusive schools start by knowing students most excellently, rather than starting with a program. This leads to a culture where individuals are celebrated for their unique contributions to the school community and are more likely to experience authentic belonging. In this session, Janelle Sievert explores how our beliefs guide our planning for students with disabilities, shares how to know students most excellently, and provides examples to aid the planning processes. Join us as we dive deeper into person-guided planning based on individual strengths, leading to faith-based and research-based support for individual

Chairperson

Jennifer Lewis

Western MI Christian High School

Speakers

Janelle Sievert

All Belong

Janelle Sievert, M.Ed, is the Educational Services Manager and a Teacher Consultant for All Belong Center for Inclusive Education in Wyoming, MI. She completed her undergraduate degree in Elementary Education & Special Education at Hope College, Reading Recovery Certification at Oakland... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
260 Fireplace Common, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Inclusion

3:00pm EDT

Recruiting and Enrollment

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

124

In this workshop, we’ll discuss lead generation, open houses, inquiry management, campus visits, admissions presentations, follow-up processes, and more. Our deep dive into the admissions process will give you the framework you need to successfully recruit and enroll new families at your school.

Chairperson

Lety Cruz

Illiana Christian High School

Speakers

Jenna Dutton

Director of Admissions, Illiana Christian High School

Jenna Dutton has worked at Illiana Christian High School since 2017. She started her work in the Marketing Department, and moved into the Director of Admissions role in 2021. Jenna has been married to her husband Caleb for 10 years, and they have three children (Sophie, Camryn, and... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
124 Classroom, 1st floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Administration

3:00pm EDT

Steps to Take to Increase Your School's Safety and Security

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

257

School safety is an important part of our responsibility as teachers and administrators and everyone in a school can play a role in maintaining a safe campus. Come hear and discuss big things and little things that can be done to increase student and campus safety.

Speakers

Ross VanderBill

Chairperson

Kevin Sall

Ada Christian School

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
257 Classroom, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Professional Development
Area Administration

3:00pm EDT

The Beauty of the Historic Christian Sexual Ethic

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

230

Speakers

Louis Phillips

Director of Church Relations, The Center for Faith, Sexuality and Gender

Chairperson

Kimberly Julian

Highland Christian School

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
230 Math and English Commons, 2nd floor

Session

Audience General
Subject Counseling

3:00pm EDT

Utilizing Play and Art in Social Emotional Learning

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

311

Rebekah is a registered play therapist who is passionate about using play and other expressive arts interventions in counseling and in the classroom. She takes a family-based approach and loves bringing the healing love of Jesus into sessions with clients of faith. She works with kids and families from 3 all the way up to young adult.

Speakers

Rebekah Karel

Clinical Director - Leadlight Cascade Child, Adolescent, and Family Therapy, Leadlight Counseling Cascade

Rebekah Karel is a licensed clinical master of social work (LMSW) and registered play therapist (RPT) who serves as the clinical director at Leadlight Counseling Cascade. Prior to serving in this capacity she worked at Calvin Christian Middle School and High School for 5 years.

Chairperson

Laura Moes

Moline Christian School

Thursday October 24, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
311 Sewing room, 3rd floor

Session

Audience General