Reflector - Timothy Christian Schools

SPECIAL FLIP-BOOK: TURN OVER FOR THE ANNUAL REPORT 2005-06 

A 

PUBLICATION OF TIMOTHY CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS 

Helicopter Parents 

Hovering Here 

SPRING 2006

Table of Contents 

Features 

2 Helicopter Parents 

Do they hover over Timothy Christian Schools as they do at other 

schools and colleges Read this Reflection piece to find out. 

13 The Mock Trial Dynasty Continues 

For the sixth time in nine years the Mock Trial Team brings home 

the state championship. If this were a sports team, we would be 

talking dynasty! 

Page 13 

Special Feature Insert 

The New to You Upscale Resale Store Milestone 

Four Christian Schools have been blessed by this amazing 

operation of faith and volunteerism. As the store approaches 

its third anniversary it has already passed a significant revenue 

milestone. But that is only part of the story. 

Special Feature Insert 

Departments 

2 Reflection 

5 Campus News 

5 Elementary and 

Middle School News 

8 High School News 

15 Timothy Alumni News

SPRING 2006 

A PUBLICATION OF TIMOTHY CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS 

188 W. Butterfield Road 

Elmhurst, IL 60126 

Phone: (630) 833-4616 

Fax: (630) 833-9238 

www.timothychristian.com 

Editor 

Dave Larsen 

Editorial Board 

Ardy Iwema 

Tai Cox 

Calvin Tigchelaar 

Marianne Tigchelaar 

Barbara Van Kampen Snella 

Photography 

Jim Hartgerink 

Cindy Van Kampen 

Barbara Van Kampen Snella 

Design and Layout 

CHANGE Design Group 

Printing 

Darwill Press 

The Reflector is published four times a year and is a publication of the Timothy Christian 

Schools Board of Directors. Timothy is a member of Christian Schools International and 

is accredited by the Commission on Schools of the North Central Association of 

Colleges and Schools. 

The Reflector is mailed free of charge to Timothy alumni, members of the Timothy 

Christian School Society, and supportive friends. 

The purpose of this publication is to foster strong ties between Timothy Christian Schools 

and its alumni/society members, to nurture Christian education in the school and in the 

family, and to better inform its readers of the activities of Timothy Christian Schools. 

We welcome letters and comments to the editor, addressed to the school or by e-mail: 

larsen@timothychristian.com. 

Alumni are especially encouraged to submit news and photos. 

We reserve the right to edit. 

Please inform the school of any change of address by providing both the old and 

new addresses. 

Superintendent 

Dan Van Prooyen 

Director of Advancement 

and Community Relations 

Dave Larsen 

High School Principal 

Clyde Rinsema 

P-8 Principal 

Dr. Tim Hoeksema 

P-8 Assistant Principal 

Susan Schemper 

Advertising rates: 

Full page: $400 

1/2 page: $225 

1/4 page: $150 

1/8 page: $75 

Board of Directors 

President 

David De Vries 

Elmhurst Christian Reformed 

President 

S.E.T. Environmental Services 

Vice President 

Cindy Vander Woude 

La Grange Presbyterian 

Educator and Homemaker 

Secretary 

Cindy Veldman 

Fountain of Life Lombard 

Consultant and Director 

Phi Beta Data 

Financial Secretary 

Robert Van Staalduinen 

Lombard Christian Reformed 

Director 

Knollcrest Funeral Home 

Treasurer 

Mark Dykema 


Vice President and Director of Operations 

Landcomp Corporation 

Todd Barre 

Christ Church of Oak Brook 

Vice President and 

Senior Investment Strategist 

The Harris Private Bank 

Tim Bolt 

Fellowship Reformed Lombard 

Senior Account Executive 

Darwill Press 

Steven De Jong 

Western Springs Christian Reformed 

Professor of Surgery 

Loyola University Medical Center 

Rachel De Young 


Homemaker and Volunteer 

Mark Dodgson 

Calvary Memorial Church Oak Park 

Fire Inspector/Investigator 

Peter Hegel 


Managing Director and Vice President 

Mesirow Financial Services 

Flory Hoving 

Faith Christian Reformed Elmhurst 


Tracy Jarzombek 



Walter Loerop 


Moldmaker 

Comet Die Engineering 

Ellen Penczak 


Marketing/Sales Manager 

Advanced Diagnostics 

Cassie Swierenga 


Artist and Homemaker 

Tom Sytsma 

Wheaton Christian Reformed 

Roll-off Manager 

Waste Management, Inc. 

Alan Tobin 


Owner 

Four Seasons Carpet Cleaning 

Howard Van Dyke 


Chief Executive Officer 

Darwill Press 

Kyle Vander Brug 


Insurance Agent 

Allstate Insurance Company 

Gerrit Wieringa 

Faith Christian Reformed 

Owner 

True Comfort Service, Inc.

Reflection Article 


Each morning as I prepare to merge onto the Tri-State 

Tollway heading north to Timothy, I look ahead 

through the windshield to see if I can spot any 

helicopters. Hovering traffic helicopters from local TV stations 

are always a bad sign. It usually means trouble up ahead. 

Some schools are beginning to feel the same way about what 

has come to be called “helicopter parents.” Parents have 

earned this uncomplimentary nickname for their hovering 

tendencies, ready to swoop in to protect or promote or 

defend their student, often unreasonably or unnecessarily. 

In the worst case scenario, the parent-teacher relationship 

becomes adversarial, and the school is perceived as harmful. 

In cases where the hovering goes unchecked, students learn 

little about problem-solving or how to advocate their cause. 

Students do not learn to handle responsibility or accept 

responsibility if they know a parent will always come to the 

rescue. Failure and success are no longer experiences that 

form the fabric of learning; there are only successes, and 

adversity is never a growth experience. 

What starts at a very young age may even continue on into 

college life. Most colleges and universities now include 

orientation sessions on helicopter parenting, encouraging 

parents to avoid constant contact via cell phones and text 

messaging. It’s become common practice for parents to call 

professors or academic administrators within minutes of their 

college student receiving an unsatisfactory grade or—perish 

the thought—a parking ticket. Tendencies begun in elementary 

school reach epic proportions in college, of all places. 

Christian homes and churches in the education and faith 

development of our students.” 

Timothy Christian Schools also thrives on the presence of 

many volunteers, most of whom are parents, who assist 

teachers and students and are a regular part of the fabric of 

school life. We place a priority on communication, and want 

parents to know the details of classroom life and work. Parent 

surveys indicate that one of our strengths is communication. 

So, will we soon be installing landing pads for the hordes of 

helicopter parents who hover each day in our hallways We 

think not. Helicopter parents are the exception, not the rule 

around Timothy. 

And if hovering becomes an issue, we trust we’ve created a 

campus culture and climate where the issue can be 

addressed face-to-face with a noticeable touch of God’s 

grace. We want the best for students and for parents as 

well. Because, in the end, helicopter parents struggle to find 

contentment and joy, and students miss valuable life lessons. 

And that’s no way to live. 

Dave Larsen 

Director of Advancement 

This growing national phenomenon presents a problem for a 

school like Timothy that not only values parental 

involvement, but also it expects it as an essential element for 

the academic, spiritual, and social development of the 

student. An involved parent normally has a positive impact 

on a student’s performance. Our vision statement highlights 

this cooperative understanding: “We cooperate with 

2 Reflector SPRING 2006

Feature Article 

Editor’s note: The Reflector asked a number of parents to read an article from the February 21, 2005, 

TIME, titled “Parents Behaving Badly.” The article devoted some space to “helicopter parents,” and we 

asked these Timothy parents under the condition of anonymity to respond to the article and comment on 

what they observe at Timothy. This discussion will continue in future issues of the Reflector, and we invite 

your letters as well. 

Parents Speak Out: 


“I think it’s true that more parents have college degrees today 

and that probably makes them more confident in dealing 

with teachers. I think that parents are slightly more involved 

now than they were when my oldest started school. I hear of 

more moms who regularly help in the classroom but I don’t 

hear criticism of teachers or the way they handle the children. 

I don’t see a helicopter problem at Timothy. I hope that is 

because we are Christians and we trust the teachers because 

we know they are Christians and have our child's best 

interests in mind. We are also a parent-controlled school so 

we have some say over what happens in our school. 

As I read the article I was struck with the fact that pushy 

parents are a by-product of our society where individual 

choice and success is valued above the good of the 

community. Perhaps it is based on the idea that you have to 

look out for yourself and push for what is best for you. The 

article pointed out that the goal of these pushy parents is to 

get their kid into a top-rated college, not to mold them to be 

people who are using their unique talents to benefit their 

communities. Our mission at Timothy is about helping 

children explore God’s world and see how they fit into His 

perfect plan. I do think we have to fight against the tendency 

to go along with the culture, which advocates overscheduling 

and focusing on grades and achievements rather 

than lessons that our children need to learn to become 

productive Christian adults.” 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

“I felt that the article was probably all too true. Parents are 

so involved with their kids these days and society is very 

child-centered. It is ironic that schools are having these 

problems because schools have probably fostered this 

problem by teaching so much self-esteem. The educational 

system has promoted the self-esteem mantra and now we 

have parents and students that can see no wrong in them 

and their children. The problem arises because every parent 

can see the helicopter parent in someone else, but not in 

themselves—their complaint is always very justified. And 

continued on next page 

SPRING 2006 

Reflector 

3

Feature Article 

that is the problem for the school—not to brush all concerns 

off as rantings from over-involved, indulgent parents, but to 

have the wisdom and discernment to see what the legitimate 

concerns are. 

As far as what happens at Timothy, I haven’t had much 

personal experience. I have heard from other parents that their 

concerns are kind of brushed to the side and not taken real 

seriously at times. It is hard. Say there are 300 families and if 

each family has only one concern a year that means the 

leadership is hearing a complaint a day. That can be very 

wearing on the leadership. But odds are that a percentage of 

those concerns have some merit, even if it is a small percentage. 

always given the impression that teachers are there to serve 

me, my child, and God. 

Timothy is doing a great job of accepting that some of my 

children will not perform at a higher level. They are there to 

encourage, help and respect my child regardless of their 

performance. They still hold them to a standard, but one 

that is good for my child. The emphasis is not just on grades. 

They look at my child as a whole being, and the teachers at 

Timothy go beyond the call.” 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

The school needs much wisdom to know which problems to 

pursue. The school should have some way to track and 

follow concerns, if the same concern is popping up from 

several sources—there may be some credibility there. 

People’s children are very precious to them, and that can 

sometimes cloud our judgment. And that makes running a 

school so much harder than say a grocery store. People are a 

lot more passionate about their children than their toilet 

paper!—which I guess is a good thing.” 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

“It seems that the problems addressed in the article are 

symptomatic of our society, a society that stresses 

performance and success at any cost. 

I have realized that teachers, like students, bring their 

personalities and perspectives into the classroom. It is 

important to listen and not react immediately. I take what 

the teacher says very seriously. I respect that the teacher is 

the professional. I will defend the teacher as well as my 

child. I try to help my child see the teacher’s point of view 

when they are not able to on their own. 

Timothy has always stressed a high standard of excellence 

for my children and the school has always been there to 

provide it as well. Timothy stands behind what it preaches. 

As a parent I have gotten so much respect and help. I am 

Care Convention students listen up 

“You asked if I see this happening or can see these things 

mentioned in the article happening at Timothy. For the most 

part, no. I feel Timothy has an open door policy when it 

comes to teacher/parent participation. Teachers mention that 

they do not mind having phone calls at home or e-mails sent 

to them. They welcome this communication. I do not feel that 

this is abused. 

Sometimes I do feel that we need to go to bat for our 

children. Just because we send them to a Christian school 

doesn’t mean that teachers always know what is best for our 

kids. On the other hand this doesn’t mean we, as parents, 

can just go in and tell the teachers and staff what we think 

because we pay their salary!” 

4 Reflector WINTER SPRING 2006 2005

Campus News 

Veteran Teachers Retire 

Veteran teachers George Bosman, Ken Huizinga, Bob Senti, 

and Larry Slager will have retired from full-time teaching 

with a combined 152 years of service to Timothy Christian 

Schools as of the end of this school year. Bob retired last 

spring; George, Ken, and Larry will end their fulltime 

teaching careers as of this spring. The next issue of the 

Reflector will include tributes from colleagues for each of 

these legends. If you have something to add, please send 

your comments to the attention of the editor. 

Elementary and Middle School News 

“Oklahoma!” 

by Marianne Tigchelaar 

Once again Judd and Linda Rinsema did an outstanding job 

of directing a middle school theater production. This year 

they had the added challenge of performing a musical: 

“Oklahoma!” The musical takes place just after the turn of 

the 20th century in Indian Territory, which is now known 

as Oklahoma. More than 600 productions of this show are 

licensed every year in the U.S. and Canada. This classic 

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s production is the first 

Broadway Musical to be honored with a commemorative 

U.S. postage stamp. 

The Rinsema team starts looking for possible productions in 

May for the following year. That gives them enough time to 

read scripts they are not familiar with. They have a list of 

possibilities that they check and rethink. 

Ruth Rottschafer, who has been their accompanist for the 

last ten years whenever they have done musicals, clues them 

in when she thinks there is a musically talented group of 

kids coming into the middle school. Last spring she did just 

that. So, after receiving this information, Linda and Judd 

started thinking about musicals. They realized that they 

both looked back with very fond memories of directing 

“Oklahoma!” back in 1996. 

Not only is the music much loved and extremely familiar, 

the story line is also one that is just plain fun. Who doesn’t 

want to be a cowboy, strap on a holster, and wear cowboy 

boots The love story elements resonate with all age groups, 

The cast of “Oklahoma” poses for a cast shot 

and some of the quirky characters—Ali Hakim, Jud Fry, 

Ado Annie, and Will Parker—are great roles to play. 

Judd observed that although doing a musical certainly adds 

elements for rehearsal—the obvious being song and dance— 

the variety of experiences and the fun of physical dance 

activity outweighs the disadvantages. 

Before they started the auditions, the Rinsemas sent a letter 

home to parents, so they understood the time commitment 

required for participation in a school production. Then 

auditions were held for anyone interested in participating. 

Some of the students rented the video before they tried out, 

so they are familiar with the story line and songs. Many 

who came to audition already knew what part they wanted 

to try out for. One parent even told Judd that a group of 


SPRING 2006 


5

Elementary and Middle School News 

... continued from previous page 

kids had watched it together and done their own guesswork 

as to who would get each of the roles. In some cases they 

even were correct. 

After the auditions were finished, the Rinsemas talked 

about who they thought could do a good job on each 

individual role. It also became apparent with some kids that 

they could do a great job on any roll given them. They then 

assigned the parts. 

Ruth in the meantime had prepared a tape of the musical 

accompaniment. Judd and Linda then made copies of the 

songs each soloist. They were asked to rehearse their songs 

at home. The group songs they learned in rehearsals, also 

using the cassettes. They didn’t have live accompaniment 

until late in the rehearsals. 

“It was a lot of fun watching the kids pull everything 

together in creating their characters and scenes,” Judd said. 

“This for us is always a highlight ... to see middle school 

students rise to the occasion to create good theater! I 

would say that every actor/actress should be commended 

for a fine performance.” 

The upper primary (2nd-3rd grade) team captured the 

seventh place trophy, led by Garrett Karpman, who won the 

first place trophy for third grade with a score of 3.5 out of 5. 

The TCS Chess Team was coached by Todd Barre and 

faculty advisor Mike Engbers. The team will be back in 

action for its third season in November. 

“Boz” receives Award of Excellence 

The Chess Team celebrates another victory 

along with sponsor Mr. Todd Barre 

Timothy Chess Team Marches On 

The Timothy Christian Chess Team finished a very successful 

2005-06 season with a solid performance at the Knights of 

the Forest Scholastic Open held at Algonquin Middle School 

in Des Plaines. 

The junior high (6th-8th grade) team captured the second 

place trophy with nine team points. Steven Barre was top 

scorer with three points (out of four), winning the first place 

trophy for seventh grade. Grade medal winners included 

Nathan Evenhouse, Jonathan Proctor, Tim Snyder, Donte 

Williams, and Brian Kuiper. The elementary (4th-5th grade) 

team won the fifth place trophy. Grade medal winners were 

Charlie Miller, Kurt Munson, Matt Huizinga, Tim Huizinga, 

and Logan Byrne. 

Middle school teacher George Bosman was named a 2006 

IMSA Award of Excellence recipient. Each year, IMSA 

(Illinois Math & Science Academy) sophomores are invited 

to nominate a former teacher who most challenged, inspired, 

and supported their academic or personal growth prior to 

enrolling at IMSA. The teachers, from both public and 

private schools, represent various grade levels and subject 

areas. Bosman was nominated for the award by former 

student Eileen King. 

Creative Writers 

Congratulations to the following middle school students 

whose poems were accepted for publication in the Creative 

Communication Student Writing Contest: Kate Ardinger, 

Nick Auriemma, Reggie Piet, Luke Svec, Jeff Vander Kamp, 

Maggie Vander Woude, Greg Vaughn, Aimee Vos, and 

Winston Williams. Their poems are in “the finals” and could 

qualify for $3,000 in prize money. Congrats to their Creative 

Writing teacher, Judy Sytsma, as well. 

6 Reflector WINTER 2005 2006

WORDMASTER Honors 

Spelling Bee winners Sean McNamara (left) and Nathan Ziegler 

Spelling Bees 

Congratulations to the winners of the Spelling Bees. The 

elementary school bee winner was fourth-grader Sean 

McNamara. Runner-up was sixth-grader Colleen Murphy. 

The middle school Bee exhibited some fierce competition. Bee 

moderator Sue Stein reports that this was the hardest level the 

spellers have ever reached. Winner of this was seventh-grader 

Nathan Ziegler with eighth-grader Tom Burnham coming in 

as runner-up. 

A student representing Timothy Christian won highest 

honors in this year’s Word Masters Challenge—a national 

language arts competition entered by more than 225,000 

students annually. Competing in the difficult Blue Division, 

fourth-grader Rebecca Overend earned a perfect score in the 

year’s second meet. In the entire country, only 118 fourthgraders 

earned perfect scores. Other students who also 

achieved outstanding results were third-graders Christopher 

Gregorio, Cassidy Bulthuis, and Hanna Markewycz; fifthgrader 

Jason Kuiper and sixth-graders Chris Ridolphi, 

Marissa Allen, Brittany Gorman, Matthew Morrison, 

Jasmine Stein, and Linnea Venhousen. The students were 

coached in preparation by their teachers. 

Math-a-Thon for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital 

During the month of March our first through eighth grade 

students had the opportunity to participate in a Math-A- 

Thon to benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. We are 

pleased to announce that the students raised $21,435.06. We 

had 290 students participate, 256 qualified for a T-shirt and 

Great America tickets, and 92 qualified for a duffle bag. 

Mrs. Gladstone’s fifth grade class was the top homeroom 

with $2,116. The top student fundraiser was fourth-grader 

Jennifer Cimmarusti, who earned $1,405. Jennifer chose to 

donate her grand prize to a deserving St. Jude’s child. 

Thanks to all who participated. St. Jude’s asked that we 

convey their heartfelt thanks on behalf of all the children 

they will be able to help with the money raised. 

Dr. Burroughs presents artwork prints for Timothy Christian 

School to Kaitlyn Gehrke (left) and Peyton Pinkerton 

Timothy Welcomes a Special Guest 

Timothy was honored to welcome Dr. Margaret Burroughs, a 

world-renowned artist, sculptor, poet, writer, teacher, and cofounder 

of the Du Sable Museum of African-American 

History, to a Fine Arts Assembly. She challenged our first 

through sixth grade students to begin now to create their own 

legacy. She reminded the students that they all have something 

great to give and they never know who they may bless along 

the way. She presented our school with 18 prints, including 

some that she had created, as well as several of her books. 

Several of our students sang, danced, and played an 

instrument during the assembly. It was a wonderful way to 

celebrate our student’s gifts and honor the Giver of those gifts. 

SPRING 2006 


7

High School News 

Wilderness Wonder 

by John Vander Kamp, high school biology teacher 

During the first week of February I had a great 

opportunity to experience the Canadian wilderness 

on a dog sled trip. My human traveling companions 

were seven Christian men who love outdoor adventure. Our 

dog sled leader was Burton Penner, a seasoned trapper 

experienced in wilderness living. He is a hunter, a fisherman, 

and he breeds dogs for dog sledding. An extraordinarily 

versatile man, he also built a cabin for his family and a 

trapper cabin in the wilderness. In his spare time, Burton, the 

artist, paints landscapes and wildlife. Most importantly, 

Burton lives out his faith as a devoted Christian steward of 

God’s creation. 

My wilderness adventure prompted many questions about 

my teaching and my classroom. What shapes teaching years 

removed from those formal days of teacher education classes 

and the rookie years of teaching Are there things to see and 

study that are unknown to a middle-aged, veteran biology 

teacher Could this fellow have fun learning something new 

Could I discover some of God’s creation truths outside of the 

classroom Better still, if I could convey my discoveries to 

my students, would they be illuminated about the truth of 

God’s world and motivated to study it 

When we left Elmhurst, it was 42 degrees with no snow on 

the ground. Driving through the night and leaving 

The wilderness crew 

civilization behind, we arrived the next morning to single 

digit temperatures and two feet of snow. We were greeted 

with Burton’s hearty handshake and friendly smile. 

“Welcome!” he said, “Are you ready to explore God’s 

creation” I was eager and willing. 

After we had harnessed the 35 dogs to the sleds, their 

excitement level was incredibly high. These dogs are bred to 

run and they LOVE it! Their barking, yelping, and howling 

were deafening. After a six-minute crash course in dog 

sledding, the seven sleds were ready to go. The dogs jerked 

our sleds into motion and we were off. 

Leaving the woods behind, we flew down a steep 

embankment. Hanging on for dear life, we quickly 

descended to a frozen lake. Thirty seconds on the lake was 

enough for me to draw the conclusion that my preparations 

were inadequate. My hood flew off, my hat and glasses were 

slipping, and when I took on mitten off to try to adjust these 

items, it froze to my other mitten. My exposed hand was no 

match for the 30-below wind chill factor and survival 

concerns were quickly becoming my focus. Thankfully, 

Burton stopped the teams, allowing us to make adjustments, 

and then we continued on in a more organized fashion. 

As I watched my dogs running, with their long tongues hanging, 

I wondered if they were thirsty. My question was answered 

when I saw them biting snow drifts as we sped along. 

The anatomy, physiology, and genetics of Canis familiaris 

fascinate me. These sled dogs have webbed feet suited for 

running on snow. Their paws are also thickly furred and 

padded. Short, furry ears reduce their chance of being frost 

bitten. A double thick coat helps these homeotherms retain 

body heat. At 50 pounds, these sled dogs are strong enough 

for significant pulling force, yet sleek enough for 

extraordinary endurance activity. They can cover 100 miles 

of rough, snow-covered terrain in a day. They have four 

times the aerobic capacity of a world class marathon runner. 

8 Reflector 

SPRING 2006

While a typical 175-pound adult male human may need 

2500 calories per day, a 50 pound sled dog may consume 

12,500. In terms of temperament, these dogs have unique 

personalities that fit into dog society hierarchy and their 

dog sled community. They are extremely friendly toward 

humans and are eager to please. 

We continued to traverse the land with our tireless dog 

teams. Leaving the forest, we were back on a meandering 

river, winding through a valley. Burton checked a trap 

outside of a beaver lodge and found a 45 pound beaver in 

it. I cannot think of anything in the biological world that is 

similar to the beaver’s tail. Besides its unique structure and 

how the beaver utilizes it, it is interesting to know that you 

can sharpen a knife on it. The hind feet of a beaver are 

ingeniously webbed and remind me of the hind feet of the 

large snapping turtles that I have caught in Salt Creek less 

than a mile from Timothy. Closer examination, however, 

indicates a very significant difference. The beaver has five 

claws like the turtle, but one of its claws is actually a 

double claw and is used for grooming its fur with water 

proof oil. The largest rodent in North America, the 

beaver’s front teeth grow throughout their lifetime. Since 

the front of the tooth is harder than the back of the tooth, 

they constantly wear down to form a chisel-like edge. The 

roots of their teeth originate far up in the skull, giving 

them a strong foundation. This is a requirement if you are 

felling trees with your incisors for over a decade! My 

students will be interested to learn that beavers 

often transform forests and entire bodies of 

water as well as the communities of 

organisms that inhabit them because of 

their gnawing activity. 

the lake. Burton pointed out images on the cliff walls. He 

told us that Native Americans supposedly painted these 

images approximately 300 years ago. He is grateful for the 

richness of the archeology of the region and the 

archeologists that have studied it. I took my 46th picture. I 

have lost track of the mental pictures recorded! 

We headed back to the cabin. The sun was setting. The cold 

intensified. The sense of solitude was profound. The dogs 

continued to run. Whenever we stopped, we experienced 

complete silence until the dogs communicated their desire to 

run again. As we made our way through the woods, we 

came to the cabin. Mounted on the front porch was a set of 

moose antlers. Hanging from a cross post were pelts from a 

timber wolf, a black bear, and a mink. Caribou antlers 

rested next to a stack of firewood. We entered the cabin. 

Burton lit three lanterns and then got the wood-burning 

stove going. Some of us chopped wood. Some of us 

chopped through the two-foot thick ice on the lake down 

the embankment to get our water. Others of us chopped up 


We climbed up the river bank and 

headed into the forest. The dogs 

were relentless. Fallen limbs, 

stumps, and boulders did not 

stop their progress as we made 

our way onto yet another 

frozen lake. We headed to the 

granite cliffs on the far end of 

John Vander Kamp and Dave and 

Don Voss, outside their cabin. 

SPRING 2006 Reflector 9


frozen raw beaver meat to feed to the dogs. Their feeding 

behavior redefined hunger for me! 

Our dinner consisted of moose steak, homemade bread, 

corn soup, and canned mandarin oranges. For dessert we 

had homemade cookies and hot chocolate. It seemed that 

the lake water produced a superior flavor to the hot 

chocolate. Maybe it was the result of the primitive cabin 

ambience or the camaraderie of my fellow mushers. With 

each cup I developed a new hypothesis. 

Hanging from the ceiling was a lynx. Burton adheres to 

governmental regulations for hunting and trapping. 

Developed over decades, these regulations work well with 

the natural predator-prey ecological balance. He is not 

permitted to take more than three lynx per year and he does 

not. The next night Burton prepared lynx stir fry. Was it 

delicious because it was something new Maybe it was the 

vegetables that he had grown in the mineral-rich soil. 

Maybe it was the freshness of the lynx. It was all good, and 

we ate until there was no more. 

Topics of conversations in the cabin were quite diverse. 

Some were of a political nature comparing the Canadian 

government to our own. Some were philosophical and some 

were pragmatic. We discussed dog breeding and cattle 

breeding. We would often talk about religious matters and 

family issues. We spoke of childhood experiences that had 

impacted us into adulthood. Sometimes we reminisced 

about the day’s adventures. Male bonding is truly grand! 

I woke up the next morning at 5:00 a.m. Why not take a 

hike It took me 23 minutes to get on my layers (six on my 

torso, three on my legs, two on my head, and three on my 

feet). I ventured outside to observe the dogs snuggled up in 

the snow sleeping. The thermometer read 24 below. My 

hike lasted almost two hours. The stars disappeared as the 

sun rose. I observed many different bird nests, including a 

hummingbird’s. I brought back a frozen insect to the cabin. 

I placed it on the table and in 30 seconds it started walking. 

Later that day I saw a frozen caterpillar with blue stripes 

hanging onto a twig that was protruding from a three foot 

snow drift. It will probably continue its metamorphic 

journey in the spring, undergo pupation in the summer, and 

then mate and die by fall. Some of my students, as well as 

Musher John Vander Kamp 

several of my teaching colleagues, would be just as 

exhilarated if they were here. We all love to learn. 

The Belgic Confession states that we know God “by the 

creation, preservation, and government of the universe; 

which is before our eyes as a most elegant book, wherein all 

creatures, great and small, are as so many characters leading 

us to see clearly the invisible things of God, even his 

everlasting power and divinity, as the apostle Paul says 

(Romans 1:20).” When we study biology in the classroom, 

both the students and the teacher read the “elegant book,” 

and the vision of the Creator-creation relationship emerges 

more clearly. It is nothing less than extraordinary. 

As I look out my kitchen window, I observe yet another 

drama in the laboratory of creation. Dozens of sandhill 

cranes are flying hundreds of feet overhead. The cranes 

may be returning from as far south as Mexico, where they 

have been wintering. Their migration may indeed take 

them over Burton’s cabin. What an awesome and 

wonderful God we serve! 


Student Achievements Worth Noting 

Senior Naomi Rivera was recognized as a member of the 

2005-06 Daily Herald Leadership Team, Honorable 

Mention, for her volunteer work within her church and 

several other organizations. Senior Zoe Voulgarakis was 

named to the Class A All-State Scholastic Bowl team. 

Congratulations! 

National Merit Finalists 

Congratulations to Nathan De Jong and Zoe Voulgarakis 

who received notification of this distinguished status. 

Illinois State Scholars 

Congratulations to the following students who qualify as 

ranking in the top ten percent of the state’s 135,500 high 

school students based on ACT/SAT scores and class 

ranking: Susan Akre, Nicole Canton, Nathan De Jong, 

Alison Dec, Rachel De Groot, Emily Geelhoed, Karen 

Malaca, Natalie Mulder, Nicholas Paganelli, Dan Sourile, 

Raul Tamez, Alyssa Van Heukelem, Alyssa Van Staalduinen, 

Sarah Vander Woude, Leia Vos, David Voss, Zoe 

Voulgarakis, and Samuel Zigterman. 

Scholastic Awards 2006 

High school teachers John Harkema and Jim Hartgerink are 

pleased to announce the following winners in art and 

photography in this year’s Scholastic Awards 2006 competition 

against local and regional high school competition. 

Media; Jennifer Groot, Brittani Klein, Mary Workman, 

Kathleen Nicholas, and Caroline Dirkse for Photography; 

Jennifer Groot, Erica Heavner, Brittany De Boer, Jessica 

Garcia and Caroline Haltom for Digital Photography. 

Congratulations to these students for their outstanding 

creative work. 

Ruth Dodgson went on in national competition and received 

a Silver Award for her photography portfolio. One of her 

photographs is included here, and the following is a portion 

of her artist’s statement on her chosen subject: a hair salon. 

“Photographers place a trademark on all their work. My 

aim is for the viewer to appreciate the unique angles and 

the geometrically trapped faces in my images. Life is usually 

seen at eye level, and the beauty of simple moments, which 

can be made profound through a different point of view, is 

often missed. I hope the viewers of my images will stop and 

notice the colors and movement in them. I hope they will 

experience the importance of details. This portfolio of a 

wannabe stylist comes out of a love to stop and appreciate 

the details in everyday life.” 

“Art is a dynamic word. ... For me art and photography are 

adjectives that describe me, almost as though they run in 

my veins. God has created me artistic. I believe I have a gift 

to share with the world. I do not want to boast in my gift, 

but rather boast in the One who gave me the tools and 

sense of art.” 

Gold Award recipients: Brittany De Boer, Jennifer Groot 

and Erica Heavner for Photography Portfolios; Mary 

Workman for Ceramics; Erica Heavner and Jennifer Groot 

for Digital Photography; Anne Bere for Photography; Ruth 

Dodgson for Mixed Media; and Jennifer Groot for Painting. 

Silver Award recipients: Jennifer Groot, Brittany De Boer 

and Erica Heavner for Digital Photography; Melissa 

Chessure, Rebecca Haltom, Ella Weber, and Rebecca Dirkse 

for Photography. 

Honorable Mention: Clay Wielard, Jocelyn Ostling, Jennifer 

Groot and Ella Weber for Drawing; Ben Mills for Mixed 

SPRING 2006 


11


Homecoming 2006: 

“A Night in the City” 

Congratulations to this 

year’s Homecoming 

Court: Freshman: 

Caroline Hays and 

Thomas Huiner; 

Sophomores: Courtney 

Bobko, Candace 

Wieringa, David 

Dodgson, and Daniel 

Miller; Juniors: 

Rebecca Dirkse, Jessica 

Grow, Katelin Jones, 

Aaron Bardolph, Peter 

Hegel, and Steve Ross; 

Ruth Dodgson and Dave Voss 

Seniors: Rachel 

DeGroot, Katrina Denny, Ruth Dodgson, Adrienne Searer, 

Zachary Fuka, David Voss, Robert Voss, and Andrew 

Ziegler. Ruth Dodgson and Dave Voss were named Queen 

and King. Ruth’s sister Sharon was Timothy’s queen last year 

but was unavailable to present the crown to her sister as she 

was serving overseas on a Mercy Ship. 

“Coming Together in Celebration” 

The Timothy Christian Black History Committee invited the 

entire Timothy Christian community to join them on 

Thursday, February 16 in the Huizenga Auditorium to 

celebrate the accomplishments of African-Americans of the 

past and present. The production included original music 

and dances performed by high school students, a skit 

performed by elementary, middle, and high school students, 

and a slide show tracing black history from slavery to the 

present. The evening was both entertaining and enlightening. 

Varsity Women’s Basketball News 

Congratulations to Ashley Biesboer who was voted to the All 

Conference Basketball Team in the Private School League. 

Just missing the team were Kim Howard and Katrina Denny, 

who were named to the Honorable Mention Team. 

Varsity Boys’ Basketball Team 

Varsity Men’s Basketball Regional Champs Lose to 

North Lawndale in Sectional Finals 

Congratulations to the boys’ varsity basketball team on an 

outstanding 29-2 record for the year. The season came to an 

end with a disheartening loss to North Lawndale before a 

turn-away standing room only crowd at the Lisle Sectional. 

A big “thanks” to all the many fans that supported the team 

this season. There were significant accomplishments for the 

team and players this year. The team record was 29-4, which 

ranks among the best in Timothy history. In addition, they 

were Private School League Conference Champs (9-0); Lisle 

Thanksgiving Champs (5-0); Regional Champs; and ranked 

as high as fourth in Class A state of Illinois during the season. 

Individual honors came to team members as well. 

Jonathan Huizinga: All Tournament Lisle Thanksgiving; 

MVP Lisle Shoot-Out; All Tournament Glenbard West; Daily 

Herald Player Of The Week; Daily Herald All Area Team; 

Private School League MVP; Second Team All State voted on 

by the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association; Selected to 

represent IBCA north division in Senior All Star Game; Sun 

Times All Area Special Mention; State Slam Dunk Contestant 

Josh Crittle: All Tournament Lisle Thanksgiving; All 

Tournament Glenbard West Tournament; Daily Herald All 

Area Team; PSL All Conference; Fourth Team All State voted 

on by the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association; Sun Times 

All Area Special Mention; State Slam Dunk Contestant. 

Chad Woldman: PSL All Conference; Regional Qualifier 

Three-Point Shooter 

Zack Van Dyke: PSL Special Mention 


Houseward Christian School Invitational Track Meet 

Congratulations to the boys’ and girls’ teams who turned in 

some fabulous performances at this 15-school meet in 

Hudsonville, Michigan. The boys’ team finished in second 

place. Notable performances include: 1st Place: Bob Voss, 

shot-put; 2nd Place: Nathan DeJong, long jump; 1st place: 

Dave Voss, 110 hurdles; 2nd Place: Nathan DeJong, 110 

hurdles; 1st Place (NEW SCHOOL RECORD): Povas 

Miknaitis, Matt Benjamin, Dale Bonnes, and Dave Voss, 800 

relay; 3rd Place: Matt Benjamin, 400 dash; 1st Place: Dave 

Voss, 300 hurdles; 2nd Place: Nathan DeJong, 300 hurdles; 

1st Place: Povas Miknaitis, Matt Benjamin, Dale Bonnes, 

and Dave Voss, 400 relay; 2nd Place: Povas Miknaitis, Paul 

Jorden, Nathan DeJong, and Matt Benjamin, 1600 relay. 

The girls’ team finished in third place with strong 

performances by: 1st Place: Ashley Biesboer, discus; 2nd 

Place: Ashley Biesboer, shot-put; 3rd Place: Shannon McNeil, 

high jump; 1st Place: Emily Geelhoed, high hurdles; 2nd 

Place: Lindsay VanderBrug, high hurdles; 3rd Place: Alexis 

Euwema, 400 meter dash; 2nd Place: Emily Geelhoed, 200 

meter dash; 2nd Place: 4x200 Relay; Rachel DeGroot, 

Monica Morrison, Adrienne Searer, and Alexis Euwema; 

2nd Place: Lindsay VanderBrug, Shannon McNeil, Monica 

Morrison, and Emily Geelhoed, 4x100 Relay. 

Mock Trial Wins State Championship—Again 

Congratulations to the Mock Trial team who are once again 

the STATE CHAMPIONS. This marks the sixth state 

championship in nine years for Coach Scott Roelofs and his 

outstanding teams. Coming off a recent first place finish in 

the Maine South tournament against some of the best teams 

in the state, the Mock Trial team met some of them again in 

Springfield. They played Glenbrook South, O’Fallon, and 

Evanston in the final eight. Boylan Catholic (Rockford) 

took third and Glenbard South took second. Individual 

awards went to Alyssa Van Staalduinen and Carli Cristman 

(outstanding attorneys) and Laura Roose (outstanding 

witness). They will compete in nationals in Oklahoma City 

in May. Mr. Roelofs is assisted by Mrs. Cathy McNeil Stein 

and Kirsten Hauser, a former prosecutor. 

Timothy’s Mock Trial Team 

LPS Sponsors Tournament for Local High Schools – 

(Reprinted with permission from trolltalk 02/17/06, 

Trinity Christian College) 

Mock Trial teams from four area high schools practiced their 

forensic skills before a jury composed of members of 

Trinity’s Law and Politics Society at a tournament held on 

campus February 4. The competition featured participants 

from Chicago Christian, Illiana Christian, Wheaton 

Academy, and Timothy Christian high schools. 

The high school students applied their arguments for the 

defense and plaintiff, using tactics they developed during 

practice sessions. As a result, they were better able to 

determine whether their direct and cross examinations and 

portrayals as witnesses were convincing and effective. Teams 

also engaged in debate and interaction with Trinity students 

interested in the law. 

“Mock trial is a fascinating way for students to assume roles 

as witnesses and lawyers, learning legal skills and challenging 

them to think on their feet,” said Nathan Vis ’08, president 

of the Law and Politics Society. 

Timothy Christian came away as reigning champions, 

although Wheaton had the best witness and Timothy had the 

best lawyer. Rhoda Mattson, J.D., and Samantha Schulz, an 

Olivet Nazarene graduate and a second year law school 

student at Loyola, acted as judges. 


SPRING 2006 


13


... continued from previous page 

A combination of theater and persuasive speaking, mock 

trial contests develop analytical and critical thinking skills. 

Competitions also provide continuing education about the 

American judicial system. 

“The tournament was very well run, and I really appreciated 

the participation by Trinity students,” said Scott Roelofs, 

Timothy Christian coach and social studies teacher. “It was 

fun for us because we had all the private league schools 

there; it was sort of like a league championship.” 

The Law and Politics Society challenges students to 

formulate vibrant, biblically-based concepts of politics and 

law while fostering a view of citizenship that stems from 

civic virtue. Members critique current legal and political 

events from the biblical standards of justice, righteousness, 

mercy, and compassion. 

The Scholastic Bowl Team 

The WYSE Girls and Guys 

Scholastic Bowl Team Finishes First 

Congratulations to the Scholastic Bowl team for their first 

place finish in the Private School League Tournament. 

Congratulations also to Zoe Voulgarakis as she was named 

Timothy’s MVP. The team is coached by teachers Carlton 

Rink and Deb Van Prooyen. 

The WYSE Guys and Girls 

Congratulations to the WYSE (Worldwide Youth in Science 

and Engineering) team for its first place finish in sectional 

competition. Individual award winners were: Nate DeJong 

(2nd place in Computer, 3rd place in Math), Brad 

Groenewold (1st place in Engineering Graphics), Nick 

Paganelli (1st place in Physics), Rob Snyder (3rd place in 

Chemistry), Zoe Voulgarakis (1st place in English, 2nd place 

in Physics), and Mark Zylstra (2nd place in Math). The team 

is coached by teacher Carlton Rink. The team advanced to 

the state competition on April 4 at the University of Illinois. 

Auction 2006 

More than 200 people enjoyed a delicious catered dinner 

and an evening of fun entertainment with friends, and raised 

almost $60,000 for the school. Thanks to everyone who 

helped make this evening a success. Whether you attended, 

helped organize or donated items, your contribution was 

very important and we appreciate your support of Christian 

education at Timothy Christian Schools. Incidentally, we 

now have a mustache-less high school principal as a result 

of the auction. (Thanks, Mr. Rinsema!) 


Alumni News 

Class Reunion News 

The class of 1985 reunion is set for May 27, 2006. 

Officially, this will be their 21st reunion. It will be at the 

Marriott Suites in Downers Grove. A report on the event 

will appear in the next Reflector. 

Alumna Adriane Koehne writes: “I would be interested to 

know if anyone from the class of 1976 is planning a 

reunion. I would like some information as to the dates, etc. 

If no one is planning one, I would be interested in being part 

of a committee that works on a reunion for our class this 

summer or fall. Please contact me at adeteach@juno.com.” 

Timothy Alumni Honored by College Alumni 

Associations 

Calvin College (Grand Rapids, Michigan) honored Mary Systma 

Greydanus ’69 and her husband, Stu, with Calvin’s Outstanding 

Service Award for their financial support and encouragement to 

five students from Stu’s high school class—all from poor 

immigrant families—to attend and graduate from Calvin. 

Trinity Christian College (Palos Heights, Illinois) honored 

Cal ’68 and Marcy ’67 Tameling as Alumni of the Year for 

their distinguished service to Trinity and the broader 

Christian community. 

On-line Alumni Photo Album 

Alumna Helen (Teune) Van Essendelft informs us of her online 

photo gallery of Timothy alumni. It contains mostly photos 

from the class of 1971, but also photos of staff members and 

students that she thought might be of interest to the Timothy 

community. If you’d like to contribute photos to the photo 

album, please contact Helen at hve@teune.com. Thanks for 

sharing, Helen! The photo album can be found at: 

http://www.teune.com/photos/thumbnails.phpalbum=85. 

George Bosman 

Ken Huizinga 

Vivian Lauth Nielsen ’38 

Accompanying a memorial gift for her mother, we received this 

note from Jill LaBardi: 

“Please accept this donation in memory of my mother, who 

passed away November 24, 2005. She was a 1938 graduate 

(from eighth grade) of Timothy Christian School in Cicero. She 

was also the grandmother of two Timothy High School 

graduates: Brian LaBardi ’96, who recently graduated from 

John Marshall Law School, and Beth LaBardi ’01, a medical 

student at Georgetown University. My mother had lost touch 

with many good friends from Timothy but always spoke highly 

of the school and the influence it had on her life. I credit her 

strong faith in large part to the Timothy family. May God bless 

you and give us all the peace my mother experienced during a 

difficult illness.” 

Linda and Judd Rinsema 

Upcoming event 

Teacher Recognition Reception will be held in the 

high school cafeteria Thursday, June 1 from 

5-7:30 p.m. Please join us to honor the stellar 

careers of George Bosman, Ken Huizinga, Bob 

Senti, and Larry Slager. All will have retired from 

full-time teaching with a combined 152 years of 

service to Timothy Christian Schools! 

Bob Senti 

Larry Slager 

SPRING 2006 


15

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SPRING 2006 


17

1 

New to You Reaches Milestone 

In advance of its third anniversary in June 2006, the 

Board of the New to You Upscale Resale Shop 

announced with gratitude to God, and thanks to the 

many volunteers who keep the store humming, that 

revenues have surpassed the $1 million mark. 

The story of New to You has been recounted in previous 

Reflector issues. But words and photos can never capture 

the enthusiasm of the volunteers, the way in which the 

resale store serves the Broadview community and beyond, 

or the benefits the store provides in support of the four 

Christian schools united in this cause: Chicago West Side 

Christian, Daystar, Humboldt Community Christian, and 

Timothy Christian. 

Providing for affordable Christian education is an ongoing 

challenge, even in well-established suburban school systems. 

It is especially urgent in urban school settings with limited 

resources and smaller donor bases of support. One creative 

solution is the New to You Resale Shop through which the 

four schools work cooperatively in a united witness to the 

Christian community and the transforming power of 

Christian education, sharing in the revenues gained through 

resale shop sales. 

continued on next page

1. Heidi McAuley's winning vintage tableau. 

2. The Board stands in front of the mural depicting the 

four schools. 

3. The New to You Board enjoys its work. 

4. Former Timothy secretary Marthann Veldman serves at 

the checkout. 

5. Timothy kindergarten teacher and volunteer Faith Schoon. 

6. Heidi accepts her prize from store manager Collette Valrie. 

The Board of Directors at Timothy is committed to 

addressing the trend toward gentrifying Christian education, 

where the wealthier suburban Christian schools generally 

thrive and the poorer urban schools generally struggle. 

Timothy views the resale shop as a creative means to a 

significant end—using our resources to benefit others while 

we benefit ourselves, building relationships and community 

in the process. 

Timothy’s Board of Directors, in consultation with 

representatives from the other schools, developed a just and 

equitable formula for revenue sharing so each school will 

reap meaningful benefit from its association with this 

project. Now that the New to You operation has passed the 

$1 million revenue mark, the annual benefit to each school is 

another tangible sign of God’s grace and make an incredible 

difference in tuition assistance for those in need, or other 

projects of each school’s choosing. 

If there is room for improvement, it has to do with the 

number of volunteers. The current corps of volunteers— 

some from each school—is usually able to handle the load. 

But vacations sometimes deplete the work force, and a 

regular need is finding able bodies to drive the truck for 

pickups and deliveries. One thing is certain—once you 

volunteer you will want to return. 

If you have not seen the store in operation, drop by the 

corner of 17th Avenue and Roosevelt Road in Broadview, 

where you will be greeted warmly and find yourself amazed 

at the store and its ministry.

4 

5 6 

Resale Shop Board Conducts Design Contest 

To get more families involved at New to You, the Board 

organized a contest for 7th through 12th grade students at 

the four supporting schools. Students were invited to come 

to the store from 5-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 12, and 

put together a display using items that are for sale at the 

store. Students chose one of four display areas to decorate, 

and had about two hours to find items and build their 

displays. The New to You Board of Directors served as 

judges. First prize was $100, received through private 

donations. Other prizes included gift certificates for 

shopping at the store. 

Eight students participated—six from Timothy and two 

from Humboldt. Students combed the store for just the 

right items to put into their displays. They used everything 

from furniture to sheet music to old records. The New to 

You Board of Directors struggled to decide on only one 

winner. Timothy sophomore Heidi Mc Auley edged out the 

other contestants to win for her vintage tableau featuring a 

violin case, mirror, fur, and flowers. Other students’ themes 

were the Super Bowl, a Victorian room, an engagement 

proposal, a wedding, and a pretty, pink bedroom. Even the 

customers enjoyed the event.

7. The guys go into overtime on their display. 

8. Students from Humboldt Community Christian check their display.

Timothy’s 

Mission: 

Serving God and His people, 

Timothy Christian Schools 

develops academically 

prepared Christian disciples 

who embrace Christ’s call 

to transform the world. 

Timothy’s 

Vision: 

Timothy Christian Schools will be distinctly Christian in its 

community, curriculum, character and convictions. 

ONE 

We reflect God’s kingdom by serving Christian families from diverse 

economic and cultural backgrounds and students who possess a 

wide range of abilities. 

TWO 

We cooperate with Christian homes and churches in the education 

and faith development of our students. 

THREE 

We demonstrate love for one another in our work and play. 

FOUR 

We challenge students to serve in a global community. 

FIVE 

We teach and study in the Reformed Christian tradition which drives 

us to be Biblically based, culturally engaged, and always reforming. 

SIX 

We nurture creativity and curiosity through meaningful curriculum 

and effective instruction. 

SEVEN 

We develop and encourage the gifts and talents of one another to 

serve Christ and renew His creation. 

EIGHT 

We seek wisdom that applies knowledge to gain understanding and 

spiritual discernment. 

NINE 

We prepare students to be articulate defenders and models of the 

Christian faith in thought, word, and deed. 

TEN 

We inspire all students to be counter-cultural disciples who are 

beacons of light in the world.

Introduction 

The Annual Meeting of the Timothy Christian Schools Society will held on 

Thursday, June 1, in the Huizenga Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Key items on the 

agenda are the presentation of the 2006-2007 budget and the election of new 

School Board members. A brief review of Board activity during the 2005-2006 

school year will be presented. 

Each year, as required by Article 9 of the Timothy Constitution, a formal report 

of the actions undertaken by the Board of Directors is prepared and presented 

to the Timothy Christian Schools Society at the Annual Meeting. 

It is impossible, however, for a written report to convey the strength of the 

Timothy Society, the depth of parental, faculty and staff commitment, or the 

spirit that permeates Timothy. A formal Board report cannot adequately 

provide insight into God’s work in the lives of our children—a work begun in 

the home and the church and continued through the educational and nurturing 

process at Timothy Christian Schools. 

As parents, friends, supporters, and members of the Timothy Society, you should 

be aware that this Board and each of its committees have faithfully prayed for 

your children. They have prayed that its actions as a Board would be wise and 

conform to God’s will for this institution. You should also know that the 

administration and faculty of Timothy care deeply for your children and 

grandchildren and desire to be God’s instrument in molding and shaping them to 

conform to his plan for their lives. The way the facilities and grounds are cared 

for, the way the buses are operated and the support that the clerical and 

administrative staff provides also reflect a commitment to giving the best that we 

are capable of giving to God’s kingdom work at Timothy. 

As you read this report, we hope that you will thank 

God for what he is doing at Timothy and recommit to 

its support through prayer and service. As we 

individually and collectively continue to do this, we will 

be obedient to God’s command in Deuteronomy 6:6-9: 

“These commandments that I give you today are to be 

upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk 

about them when you sit at home and when you walk 

along the road, when you lie down and when you get 

up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them 

on your foreheads. Write them on the door frames of 

your houses and on your gates.” 

2005-2006 

ANNUAL REPORT 

1

Board of Directors 

President 



Vice President 


La Grange Presbyterian 

Secretary 

Cindy Veldman 

Fountain of Life Lombard 

Financial Secretary 

Robert Van Staalduinen 


Treasurer 

Mark Dykema 


Todd Barre 


Tim Bolt 

Fellowship Reformed (Lombard) 

Steven De Jong 




Mark Dodgson 

Calvary Memorial (Oak Park) 

Pursuant to constitutional provision, the Board of Directors is responsible for 

the supervision of instruction, the appointment of teachers, staff, and 

administrators, the management of the business of the schools, and the 

performance of all duties necessary to carry out the mission and philosophy of 

the Timothy Christian Schools Society. 

Comprised of 21 individuals, the Board is currently organized to discharge its 

mandate through six major committees. Generally, the full Board and each 

committee meet monthly to conduct the business of the schools. 

The challenges facing contemporary Christian education in the Reformed 

tradition are not static and compel the Board to work diligently and creatively 

to improve the quality of the education provided, to build the overall 

community within which learning and service occurs, and to do so in the most 

cost-efficient manner possible. As described throughout this report, the 2005- 

2006 Board has been very hard at work to achieve these goals and to position 

the Society for an exciting future. It is the hope and the prayer of the Board 

that the Timothy Christian Schools Society will continue to experience God’s 

blessing and that each of you within the Society will faithfully support the 

hard and important work of doing Christian education. To the Triune God be 

all the glory. 

Peter Hegel 


Flory Hoving 

Faith Christian Reformed (Elmhurst) 

Tracey Jarzombek 


Walter Loerop 


Ellen Penczak 




Tom Sytsma 

Wheaton Christian Reformed 

Alan Tobin 






The Timothy Board of Directors 2005-06 


Faith Christian Reformed 

2 ANNUAL REPORT 2005-2006

The State of the School 

As our mission statement describes it, we strive to 

develop academically prepared Christian disciples 

who embrace Christ’s call to transform the world. We 

continue to not only learn how to do this, but to 

recognize the Lord’s work in students’ lives as we see 

it happening. 

Board President 

David De Vries (left) 

and Superintendent 


Among the many challenges we faced this year is the 

constant effort to achieve and maintain a healthy 

enrollment. To that end, and with the assistance of the 

Timothy Foundation which provided initial funding, 

we established a new position in Marketing and 

Recruitment and were pleased to hire Mr. Rudi Gesch 

to fill this post. In support of this effort and his position, the Board worked to 

improve our website, develop a promotional DVD, and enhance our Open 

House program. Healthy enrollments will enable us to operate at optimal 

educational effectiveness, expand our offerings, and stabilize the budget. 

One of our current challenges is to effectively embrace societal changes while 

holding firm to our core values and tradition. We must openly accept the 

consumer-driven demands of a new generation and its views on education while 

maintaining our Reformed Christian tradition. 

We are addressing educational needs by strengthening our Enrichment Program 

in grades K-6 and adding a teacher for Spanish in the elementary/middle 

schools. To stay ahead of the curve in discussions on health and nutrition in 

schools, we will likely contract with a professional food service company to 

manage our operation. 

Looking toward the future we worked steadily at two significant developments 

this year. The first was hiring the architectural firm of OWP/P to develop a 

Campus Master Plan with a view to addressing capital expansion needs and 

opportunities. The second is the further development of a focus on 

Intergenerational Christian Education in cooperation with Rest Haven 

Christian Services. Both developments point to a healthy future and added 

value to a Timothy education. 

Financially we were blessed with a record year in giving to Timothy and a 

Foundation Endowment which has grown to over $4 million in assets. We are 

building a strong base of supporters from affiliated and supporting churches 

who are willing to commit to an annual amount for the Timothy Fund in an 

effort to hold down tuition increases. Often these are constituents who once 

2005-2006 

ANNUAL REPORT 

3

Superintendent’s Report Continued 

had children at Timothy and are now willing to assist other families through an 

annual gift to the school. Sound fiscal management on the part of 

Administration and Board enables us to maintain a healthy financial position. 

While fuel costs continue to rise, so do some other, better things. Our Mock 

Trial team—a dynasty really—recorded its sixth State Championship since 

1998. The Iowa Basic Skill Test scores were outstanding, as were the ACT 

scores again. The number of National Merit students and Illinois State Scholars 

in the high school remain strong for a school our size. 

The Timothy Christian 

Mock Trial Team. 

In summary, we speak on behalf of all who serve here at Timothy when we 

acknowledge the daily blessing it is to be part of God’s kingdom efforts here— 

surrounded by energized students, supportive parents, and a prayerfully 

generous community. To God be the glory! 


Superintendent 


Board President 


Executive Committee 

David De Vries, President 

Mark Dykema 

Bob Van Staalduinen 


Cynthia Veldman 

The elected officers of the Board of Directors constitute the Board’s Executive 

Committee. Those officers, in consultation with the Superintendent, act on 

behalf of the full Board between monthly meetings and as needed for the 

general operation of the schools. The committee generally functions to identify, 

organize and prioritize issues of policy and practice, to develop strategies to 

frame, study and address issues of importance and to ensure full and fair 

consideration of all policy issues by the full Board. While the Executive 

Committee faithfully meets once a month, the exigencies of operating the 

schools typically require at least weekly and often daily consultation by and 

among committee members. 

In addition to its regular duties of overseeing policy development, 

interpretation, and compliance, the Committee or its members may often be 

found providing guidance, advice or at least a listening ear to the senior 

administrators of the schools. During the course of the 2005-2006 academic 

year, the Committee led the implementation of significant issues of resource 

deployment with Rest Haven Christian Services in connection with their 

planned development adjacent to the high school, continued exploration for 

achieving capital improvements to the campus, and made adjustments and 

commitments expected to ensure strong administrative leadership in the years 

to come. This work has taken committee members into relationships and 

meetings well beyond those of regularly scheduled committee meetings and is 

expected to establish a strong foundation for the immediate future of Timothy 

Christian Schools. 


2005-2006 

ANNUAL REPORT 

5

Admissions Committee 

Timothy Bolt, Chair 


Mark Dodgson 

Ben Hoekstra 

Flory Hoving 

Wendi Huiner 

Bill Kuiper 

Wally Loerop 

Ellen Penczak 

J.D. Salazar 


Tom Sytsma 

Al Tobin 



Bonnie Zigterman 

First, the committee thanks Ann Raley, K-12 Admissions Coordinator for her 

dedication and tireless efforts on behalf of the Admissions Committee. Ann does 

a tremendous job insuring the work of the Admissions Committee runs smoothly. 

Second, I offer my sincere thanks to all committee members for their 

willingness to serve and their efforts in making themselves available to carry 

out the work of the committee. 

Committee members have the joy and privilege of meeting with parents 

interested in sending their child(ren) to Timothy Christian Schools for the first 

time. Getting to know these parents, hearing their personal testimonies and 

walks of faith as well as hearing the many stories of how they learned of 

Timothy are wonderful highlights of serving. Learning of Timothy through a 

current Society member is the primary way interested parents learn of Timothy. 

Learning of Timothy by visiting the Timothy website is the second most 

effective way interested parents are introduced to Timothy. This past year over 

50 new families were happily welcomed into The Timothy Society. 

Ann Raley handles the difficult challenge of scheduling all of the admissions 

interviews. Interviews typically take place during a monthly evening meeting, 

but may take place anytime that is available for interested parents. Determining 

the primary motive of why parents are interested in sending their child(ren) to 

Timothy is the main challenge for the interviewers during a interview. 

Throughout this past year the committee worked to meet one of Timothy’s 

constitutional mandates, that those who send their children to Timothy be 

active Christian church members. The verification process of active church 

membership in nearly 200 different churches is an every-other year process for 

us. The partnership of church, home and Timothy Christian Schools is 

strengthened through this verification process. 

All of us involved in the admissions process request your prayers for God’s 

guidance and wisdom as we serve God and Timothy in the area of admissions. 

Timothy Bolt 


Building and Transportation Committee 

Gerrit Wieringa, Chair 

Wally Loerop 

Tom Sytsma 

Al Tobin 


Highlights from our committee year included the completion and implementation 

of our Emergency Response Plan, a carefully developed and thick manual that 

tries to anticipate a plan for responding to a variety of situations. We also 

directed the purchase of two one-year-old buses. High school hallways are 

brighter as a result of a lighting upgrade project that was paid for by a grant 

from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation. And we always rejoice in 

the provision of good bus drivers and no major traffic incidents. 

Encouraged by the Board, we took on the task of exploring all options to find 

an economical way to run an experimental express bus route down the 75th 

Street (Woodridge) corridor in an effort to reduce the time students spend on the 

bus, save on fuel, and provide another marketing tool to extend our reach in 

recruiting students. Critical issues facing us—and familiar to all homeowners— 

are how to keep our utility costs in check and stay on budget with diesel fuel 

prices unstable. We are also facing an aging facility and a roof that is going to 

need repair in the near future. 

As solutions to some of these challenges we will continue to develop the express 

run concept, we carefully isolated utilities so we can track the budget with more 

precision, and we continue to work with energy consultant Don Mulder to look 

at alternative ways to purchase fuel. 

In many ways our committee works behind the scenes to make the public works 

work. We are grateful for the expertise of our building, maintenance, grounds 

and bus staff, and for all those who support us with prayers and gifts for these 

ongoing projects and needs. 


2005-2006 

ANNUAL REPORT 

7

Institutional Advancement Committee 

Cynthia Veldman, Chair 

Todd Barre 

Tim Bolt 

Steve De Jong 

Mark Dodgson 


Ellen Penczak 

Marketing and recruitment were the hot topics and top priorities for our 

committee this year. To extend the reach of our message and build enrollments 

for the future, we spent most of the committee year focusing on a new 

promotional DVD, the development of an improved and enhanced website 

which will debut early this summer, a network of church ambassadors to 

promote Timothy, and a new display sign to replace the dated one on 

Butterfield Road. The committee was also delighted with the appointment of 

Mr. Rudi Gesch to a new position as Director of Marketing and Recruitment. 

Not only will he bring a fresh perspective to this important work, his 

appointment will free Dave Larsen to focus more of his time on building donor 

relations and fundraising for the Timothy Fund and Foundation Endowment. 

Another highlight which will debut next fall is the development—with Partners 

in Education—of a parent mentor program, designed to enfold new parents 

into the Timothy community. Look for more news of this program in the 

months ahead. 

The work of the Institutional Advancement Committee is the stuff of dreams 

and reality. We enjoy taking the Mission and Vision of Timothy and finding 

new and more effective ways to communicate what the Lord is doing on our 

campus. We thank you for your ideas, suggestions, and encouragement. 

Cynthia Veldman 


Education Committee 

Cindy Vander Woude, Chair 

Ann De Groot 


Malinda Dirkse 

Jay Evenhouse 

Reginald Greenwood 

Peter Hegel 

Flory Hoving 


Teachers are the heartbeat of the school and the means by which God 

accomplishes his purposes at Timothy. We took note of the upcoming retirement 

from full-time service at Timothy of veterans Larry Slager, Ken Huizinga, and 

George Bosman, who with last year’s retiree, Bob Senti, will be honored at a 

reception prior to the Annual Society meeting. We gladly welcomed Rachel Weide, 

Kayla Worries, Lisa Eastway, Oliver Hersey, Kevin Tameling, and Josh Anderson. 

Anna Watson is also new, but an Elim employee. We also note that Paige Buck, 

Michelle Gladstone, Chris Casemier, and John Contant have decided not to return 

to Timothy next year, and thank them for their years of service here. 

Teachers work with curriculum and programs, the stuff that drives the educational 

process. Many changes for next year were the result of committee discussion and 

action. The Board approved the addition of Spanish in K-8 for the next academic 

year. We recommended and oversaw the reinstatement of the industrial technology 

program in high school. The process of revamping the high school English 

curriculum that will allow American literature and U.S. History to be taught the 

same academic year was begun this year. 

The Education Committee gives oversight to summer curriculum work in the 

development of critical thinking skills in the sciences, the summer reading 

program, and an ongoing review of North Central Accreditation goals in reading, 

critical thinking, and a Reformed worldview. 

A major focus this year was the study and recommendation of a policy for a 

uniform standard in grades 7-12, which was eventually defeated by Board decision. 

The committee, working with administrators, helped with the revamping of parent 

evaluation in grades K-8, approved additional summer camp offerings, studied 

patterns and purpose for elementary school worship, and advised in the middle 

school transitioning to a seven period day. 

Ongoing attention is given to the development of curricular mapping and the 

approval of new curriculum and textbooks in a number of areas. 

And we rejoiced to notice the significant academic accomplishments of our State 

Champion Mock Trial Team, the Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering 

Team, Scholastic Bowl Team, Chess Team, and students performing exceptionally 

well as National Merit scholars and Illinois State Scholars. With exemplary Iowa 

Basics and ACT scores, we are grateful for the atmosphere of academic 

achievement that also supports meaningful programs for the wider variety of 

learning needs and abilities of all our students. We are grateful to the many parents 

who support their students and our teachers with love and prayer. 


2005-2006 

ANNUAL REPORT 

9

Finance Committee 

Mark Dykema, Chair 

Todd Barre 

Steve De Jong 

Peter Hegel 




Gerrit Wierenga 

Recognizing that all we have is a gift from the Lord, the Finance Committee of 

Timothy Christian is tasked with fulfilling the school’s mandate and obligation to 

be good stewards of the funds that God has blessed us with and apply those in 

the most effective and efficient manner. To this end, the committee is responsible 

for monitoring and managing all of the income and expenses of the school and 

works closely with the administration and staff in developing and adjusting its 

plans and budgets to maintain a healthy financial position for the school. 

We were blessed to begin the new school year on the heels of a strong financial 

year for Timothy and challenged to maintain the momentum and direction of 

the school towards eliminating debt and achieving a balanced financial 

position. Our 2005-2006 budget was structured to further reduce the portion 

of the school’s debt related to operating costs while keeping tuition increases 

below 4% for the first time in many years. Our objective to reduce debt, 

however, was made more difficult due to reduced enrollment in the high school 

this year compared to our budgeted expectations. Beginning the year with 18 

fewer students in the high school compared to budget and seven fewer students 

school-wide challenged the committee and administration to identify other 

opportunities for reducing costs and generating income, and we are confident 

the Lord has guided us carefully along the way. 

In addition to our reduced enrollment, our budget has been challenged with 

drastic increases in fuel and natural gas charges as the market for these has 

become increasingly unstable. Current projections are to finish the year with as 

much as $20,000 of increased costs in fuel and natural gas charges compared to 

our budget. While our revenue is down and fuel charges are up, we have been 

successful in continuing cost reductions in most other areas to save 

approximately $100,000 in fees. We expect these cost savings to exceed our 

losses in income and fuel charges at year end and plan to reduce our beginning 

loan balance of $190,000 significantly. 

In addition to managing the school’s finances, a primary focus for our 

committee during 2005-2006 has been to participate in the work toward 

reversing the trend in declining enrollment at the school. Being responsible for 

the financial condition of the school, we recognize the value and importance of 

increasing enrollment at Timothy in order to continue providing the quality 

Christian education we have in the past without significant increases in tuition. 

Understanding that “investments” are required to create growth, this year we 

have committed to increase the elementary/middle school Enrichment program, 

fund and staff an elementary/middle school Spanish program, create a 

marketing budget, and improve the food program for the 2006-2007 year. 


Other projects, goals and tasks that we have worked on this year include: 

• Consolidating miscellaneous accounts into interest bearing accounts. 

• Managing overdue and delinquent tuition account balances. 

• Administering tuition assistance to families with need. This year 

more than $144,000 has been allocated in tuition assistance based 

on financial need. 

• Increasing Foundation Assets to provide additional tuition 

assistance and support for capital programs of the school. 

• Working with the staff and administration in establishing 

compensation increases and faculty tuition assistance for the next 

fiscal year. 

• Working with contracts for the development of the campus master 

plan, a promotional DVD, and website design services. 

• Improving network security for telephone and Internet services. 

• Working with the supporting churches in administering and 

collecting their total tuition assistance obligations. 

• Managing contributions to the Timothy Annual Fund Drive 

• Establishing procedures for directing unrestricted gifts to the 

Timothy Foundation. 

• Monitoring other miscellaneous financial activities including, 

rentals, food service, etc. 

We have been blessed with the opportunity to serve Christ through our work at 

Timothy Christian and remain confident the Lord has specific plans to use 

Timothy to fulfill his work in our community. We are excited to see firsthand the 

enthusiasm and commitment of the staff and administration He has placed here 

and their desire to model Christ to our children each day in the halls of our 

school. We thank God for each of you and pray for God’s blessings in your lives. 

Timothy is also blessed with so many who give each year of their financial gifts, 

time and prayer. It is through this generosity and commitment that God has 

allowed Timothy to continue over the decades and minister to so many 

generations. It is our prayer that each student at Timothy may experience God’s 

grace through you and model your commitment into their adult lives. 

As parents, we understand the commitment and sacrifice required to provide a 

Christian education to our children, and we want to thank each and every 

family represented at Timothy for your continued prayer and support. It is our 

prayer that God would bless each of you as continues to bless our school 

through you. Thank you. 

Mark Dykema 

2005-2006 

ANNUAL REPORT 

11

Timothy Christian Schools Foundation 

Peter Huizenga, President 

David Bere 

Lee Brandsma 

Richard K. De Boer 

Mark Dykema 

Peter Hegel 

Case Hoogendoorn 

Arnold Hoving 

Ken Hoving 

Bastian Knoppers 

Rob Petroelje 

Lawrence Poltrock 

Terry Van Der Aa 


Donald Vos 

Wayne Vriesman 

The Timothy Christian Schools Foundation was established with gifts for 

endowment, as one way of participating in God’s design for faith in future 

generations. Since its inception through a bequest from the estate of “Aunt 

Tena” Huizenga, a Timothy constituent who had dedicated her life as a 

Christian missionary in Africa, the Foundation has provided a way for others 

to join in the opportunity to bless the future. From its beginning with $28,000 

in 1978, the Foundation today has nearly $4,202,734 in invested assets 

compared to $3,763,000 on June 30, 2005. Foundation assets are used for 

tuition and salary assistance, curricular and program development, 

scholarships, and special projects. 

While grateful for God’s blessings through his people, we cannot stop here or 

rest on the past. Our immediate goal is to build the Foundation to an amount 

equal to Timothy’s annual operating budget. We plan to build the endowment 

to a level double the annual operating budget, so the vision and experience of 

Christian education does not become exclusive or not affordable. 

As shown below, in the first nine months of 2005-2006 funds of $220,000 were 

used to provide assistance for the projects listed. The Foundation continues to 

serve a vital function in providing opportunities for excellence at Timothy. 

John Zeilstra 

TIMOTHY CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS FOUNDATION 

Summary of Projected Foundation Activity 2005/2006 

RECEIPTS 

Gifts to the Foundation $ 140,000 

Investment Income 500,000 

TOTAL RECEIPTS $ 640,000 

DISBURSEMENTS 

Management Fees Paid $ 25,000 

Scholarships and Awards 50,000 

Tuition and Program Assistance 169,902 

TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS $ 244,902 

Current Year Projected Net Change $ 395,098 

Foundation Net Assets at June 30, 2005 $ 3,763,000 

Foundation Net Assets At June 30, 2006 - Projected $ 4,158,098 


Timothy Christian Schools 

OPERATING FUND & PLANT FUND FINANCIAL REPORT 

Actual Actual Projected Budgeted 

Fiscal Year 9 Months Fiscal Year Fiscal Year 

2004/2005 3/31/2006 2005/2006 2005/2006 

OPERATING FUND RECEIPTS 

Educational Receipts 6,509,858 4,877,152 6,525,975 6,583,870 

Other Income 250,842 215,981 250,000 268,000 

TOTAL OPERATING RECEIPTS 6,760,700 5,093,133 6,775,975 6,851,870 

OPERATING FUND DISBURSEMENTS 

K-12 Educational Operations 6,506,864 5,006,031 6,731,800 6,761,503 

Pre-School Educational Operations (6,191) (16,078) (23,325) (11,265) 

Program & Faculty Development (54,776) (44,892) (50,000) - 

Community Relations & Advancement 24,062 26,152 35,000 60,000 

Other Expenses (7,955) 8,789 15,113 - 

TOTAL OPERATING FUND DISBURSEMENTS 6,462,004 4,980,002 6,708,588 6,810,238 

OPERATING FUND SURPLUS OR (DEFICIT) 298,696 113,131 67,387 41,632 

PLANT FUND RECEIPTS 

Capital Improvements Revenue 322,492 298,621 308,000 263,000 

TOTAL PLANT FUND RECEIPTS 322,492 298,621 308,000 263,000 

PLANT FUND EXPENSES 

Fixed Asset Purchases 204,633 229,985 235,000 232,000 

Capital Contingencies 27,804 6,281 17,250 10,000 

Depreciation 289,006 349,169 436,462 232,000 

TOTAL PLANT FUND DISBURSEMENTS 521,443 585,435 688,712 474,000 

Net Change (198,951) (286,814) (380,712) (211,000) 

Add Back Fixed Assets Purchases 204,633 229,985 235,000 232,000 

PLANT FUND SURPLUS OR (DEFICIT) 5,682 (56,829) (145,712) 21,000 

COMBINED SURPLUS OR (DEFICIT) 304,378 (56,302) (78,325) 62,632 

Balances at Fiscal Year End 

Actual Actual Projected 

SUMMARY OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES 6/30/2005 3/31/2006 6/30/2005 

ASSETS 

Cash & Prepaid Expenses 195,312 238,559 72,431 

Tuition and Pledges Receivable 275,414 280,183 270,000 

Fixed Assets Net of Depreciation 13,614,497 13,492,693 13,413,035 

TOTAL ASSETS 14,085,223 14,001,435 13,755,466 

LIABILITIES 

Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses 1,032,631 1,091,390 1,025,000 

Prepaid Tuition 41,301 67,533 45,000 

Designated Gifts 172,378 288,721 150,000 

Notes Payable 1,470,000 1,150,000 1,200,000 

TOTAL LIABILITIES 2,716,310 2,597,644 2,420,000 

OPERATING FUND & PLANT FUND NET ASSETS 11,368,913 11,413,791 11,335,466 

2005-2006 

ANNUAL REPORT 

13

Annual Society Meeting Minutes - May 19, 2005 

I. Call to Order: Board President Bruce Van 

Heukelem called the meeting to order. Dave 

Larsen led devotions and opened in prayer. 

II. 

III. 

IV. 

Election of Board Members 

On behalf of the Board of Directors, Mr. Van 

Heukelem presented the following motion: 

To be elected, nominees must receive a majority 

of the votes cast including absentee ballots 

presented at or before this time. The motion 

was supported and passed by voice vote. 

Mr. Van Heukelem then introduced the slated 

nominees. Nominees included: 

Elmhurst CRC – Mark Dykema, Kyle Vander Brug 

Faith CRC – Ellen Penczak 

Lombard CRC – Tracy Jarzombek 

Western Springs CRC – Rachel De Young 

At Large – Mark Dodgson, Calvary Memorial 

Church Oak Brook; Peter Hegel, Christ 

Church of Oak Brook 

Tellers were Todd Barre and Gerrit Wieringa. 

The vote was called and the ballots were 

collected and counted. 

Minutes of the May 27, 2004, Annual 

Society Meeting 

On behalf of the Board, Mr. Van Heukelem 

presented a motion to approve the minutes 

of the Annual Society Meeting of May 27, 

2004. The motion was seconded and passed 

by voice vote. 

Secretary’s Report 

Cynthia Veldman highlighted several of the 

Board Committee activities from the past 

school year. The Annual Report, providing 

general information on the Board of 

Directors’ activities during the 2004-2005 

year, was previously distributed and received 

for information. 

V. Report from the Superintendent 

Dan Van Prooyen gave an oral report on the 

activities of the school from the perspective of 

the Superintendent. Included was a tribute to 

Timothy volunteers led by Dave Larsen. 

After their recognition, Theresa Van Zeelt, the 

Treasurer of the Friendship Clubs of Timothy 

Christian Schools, was introduced. She 

presented Mr. Van Prooyen a check in the 

amount of $80,000. Also, Mr. Ray Hemphill 

from Rest Haven Christian Services and Mr. 

Van Prooyen provided an update on the 

cooperative initiative between the two 

institutions. Mr. Van Prooyen concluded his 

remarks by reading a thank you letter from 

parents who have two children attending. 

VI. 

Treasurer’s Report 

Mr. Andy Kranenborg presented the 

Treasurer’s Report including a review of the 

financial condition of Timothy Christian 

Schools. A written financial report was 

received for information. Mr. Kranenborg 

also presented an overview of the 2004-2005 

operating budget and actual performance. 

VII. Budget Proposal 

Mr. Van Heukelem presented the following 

motion on behalf of the Board: To approve 

the 2005-2006 budget of $7,281,500 as 

proposed. The motion was seconded. Mr. 

Kranenborg then introduced and discussed 

the proposed budget in detail. After Mr. 

Kranenborg’s presentation was completed, 

Mr. Van Heukelem called for a voice vote and 

the motion passed. 

VIII.Election Results 

Mr. Van Heukelem announced that all the 

slated nominees were elected. 


IX. Recognition of retiring 

Board Members 

Mr. VanProoyen recognized the following 

retiring Board members: Andy Kranenborg, 

Bill Kuiper, J.D. Salazar, Sandy Tameling, 

Herman Vander Naald and Bruce Van 

Heukelem. Each retiring Board Member 

received a plaque of appreciation. 

X. Adjournment 

A motion was made and supported to 

adjourn this meeting of the Timothy Christian 

Schools Society. The motion passed and Bruce 

Van Heukelem closed in prayer. 

Board Nominees 

The Board of Directors is pleased to present the 

following nominees for Board positions. Each 

candidate was asked, in preparation for this report, 

to respond to the following questions: 

1. What motivates you to serve on the Timothy 

Christian Schools Board of Directors 

2. What strengths or areas of expertise would you 

bring to the Board 

3. Our mission calls for the development of 

academically prepared Christian disciples who 

are taught from a Reformed Christian 

perspective. What can a Board member do to 

make this happen 

Their responses and brief biographical sketches are 

presented below. 

Kyle Buikema 

Elmhurst Christian 

Reformed Church 

I am looking forward to 

serving on the Timothy School 

Board because as a parent I 

want our children to have the best Christian 

education that we can provide. After attending and 

being a part of Christian schools, I realize how 

important that is in developing you as a person, 

and how you choose to live your life for God. I 

would like to be a part of the Timothy board so I 

can use the talents that God has given me to serve 

our school as we move forward and face the 

challenges of the 21st century. 

Most of my strengths come from the experience of 

running our family business of Ace Hardware 

stores. I started by sweeping up and stocking 

shelves at the age of 11 and have worked my way 

up to serving as president of our company for the 

last six years. I currently serve on five Ace 

Corporate committees and was chairman for 12 

years of the Chicago Northwest Advertising Group. 

In addition to running multiple stores, I also have 

experience in the real estate market, including 

buying, building, leasing and selling. I thoroughly 

enjoy working with people and would like to 

contribute where I can, based on my experiences. 

The members of the Board have the responsibility to 

help students and teachers make the connections 

between learning in the classroom and serving God. 

In order to make this happen, we need to listen and 

provide support for our teachers, students, and 

parents. As a committee, we need to continue to 

work together to maintain the high standards that 


2005-2006 

ANNUAL REPORT 

15

Board Nominees Continued 

make Timothy Schools what they are today. None of 

this is possible without God in our lives to guide us 

as we make decisions that will affect our children. 

I grew up in Wheaton where I lived with my 

parents and two brothers. While living there, I 

attended Wheaton Christian Reformed Church, 

Wheaton Christian Grammar School, and then on 

to Timothy for high school. After high school I 

attended college at Northwood Institute in 

Midland, Michigan, where I received my associate 

of arts degree in business management. My 

education continued at Texas Christian University, 

where I received my bachelor’s degree in business 

administration and marketing, with a minor in 

speech communication. 

I met my wife, Patty, in the third grade at Wheaton 

Christian Grammar School, and we have been 

happily married now for 18 years. Patty is a 

graduate of Timothy and continues to be involved 

in school. She has served on the fashion show 

auction committee, been a Picture Lady and enjoys 

being a room mom. We have three children who 

attend Timothy. Brandon is a sophomore who 

enjoys basketball and track; Brittany is in the eighth 

grade and enjoys volleyball, basketball and track; 

and Bridgitt is in the fifth grade and loves band and 

guitar club with Mr. Gesch. I enjoy many sports 

including snow skiing, tennis, golf and boating. We 

live in Woodridge, and are members of Elmhurst 

Christian Reformed Church. 

Leslie Fazio 

Lombard Christian 


I grew up in Palos Park where I 

attended Chicago Christian 

High School. My husband, Phil, 

and I now live in Lisle. We have two children. Philip, 

our son, graduated from Timothy in 2002 and Casey, 

our daughter, is currently a freshman. For the past 

five years I have worked as the insurance coordinator 

in a dental office in Oak Brook. 

Previously I have served as a leader in Story Hour 

and Sunday School. At Lombard Christian 

Reformed Church I am the Sunday School 

Superintendent. I have a desire to serve and a heart 

for children and I believe that a good, Christcentered 

education is the best foundation we can 

give our children. 

Julie Huisman 

Faith Christian 


My name is Julie Huisman. I 

attended Timothy from preschool 

through 12th grade, 

and graduated in 1990. I enjoyed my experiences at 

Timothy and appreciated the staff that guided me 

along the way. I am married to Randy Huisman, 

who I met at Timothy. Randy and I have been 

married for 13 years and have been blessed with 

three wonderful children. Kaylee (12), Madison (9), 

and Nicholas (6); they all attend Timothy. My 

family and I attend Faith CRC and have been 

members there all our lives. 

Organization and my experience in working with a 

non-for-profit organization will help me with 

serving on this Board. I have the experience of 

organizing many charity events and enjoy 

coordinating and planning. I am ready to serve God 

and the community to the best of my ability. 

I am honored that I have the opportunity to serve 

on the Timothy Christian Schools Board of 

Directors. Having gone through Timothy and 

having three children there now motivates me to be 

on this Board. I feel the best way to make things 

better is getting involved. As a Board member we 

need to continue to make Timothy a place where 

our children can grow spiritually and academically. 


We need to make sure they are prepared, God 

fearing young adults when they graduate. Our 

decisions and work must be done with prayer and 

the faith that God’s will is done. God has blessed 

this community with Timothy and I feel he has 

placed all who have been asked now and in the past 

to serve on this Board to help further his kingdom. 

Cathy Mc Neil Stein 

At Large 

Rock of Ages Baptist, 

Maywood 

I am a wife, mother, and 

attorney. My husband and I have 

four children and live in Villa Park. Our oldest child 

graduated from Timothy last year and is currently 

attending Wheaton College. Our three younger children 

attend the elementary school (sixth grade), middle 

school (eighth grade) and high school (ninth grade). 

After practicing law in the trial department of a 

downtown law firm for 18 years, I decided to follow 

God’s lead and leave the full-time practice of law. 

My volunteer efforts have always involved children 

and education, and I believe that now, more than 

ever, a Christ-centered education is of paramount 

importance to today’s children. I would like to 

continue to serve children by sharing my experiences 

and insight as a member of the Timothy Board. 

I currently advise the High School Mock Trial 

Team, volunteer in the elementary/middle school 

library, substitute teach when needed, and manage 

the book department in the New to You Upscale 

Resale store. Recently, I assisted the high school 

students in planning and presenting the annual 

Black History program. 

My family and I attend Rock of Ages Baptist 

Church in Maywood. Over the years, I have 

worked with the children’s ministry in various 

capacities, including planning and coordinating 

the weekly worship services and the annual 

Children’s Day and Christmas programs. I have 

served as Vice Chair of the Board of the Chicago 

Children’s Choir and as Chairman of the Human 

Resources Committee of the Board. Also, I have 

served as a member of the Board of the Harvard 

Law Society and as Vice President of the Harvard 

Legal Aid Bureau. 

I received my undergraduate degree from 

Georgetown University in 1983 and my law degree 

from Harvard Law School in 1986. 

Dan Westra 

Western Springs Christian 


I am honored to be a nominee 

for the Timothy Christian 

School Board of Directors. My 

family: Cindy (wife), Tracy (kindergarten), Heidi 

(preschool) and Jason (3 years old) are members of 

Western Springs CRC. I am employed at Resource 

Management Companies as the General Manager. 

Besides family and work, I enjoy most sporting 

activities, especially golf. 

I graduated from Central Wisconsin Christian High 

School in Waupun, Wisconsin, and also from Trinity 

Christian College. I am truly grateful for the Christian 

education that I received at these institutions. The 

opportunity to serve on this school board would be a 

wonderful and rewarding experience as you get to be 

involved in the development and shaping of so many 

young people. During my time at Western Springs 

CRC I have served on council as a deacon, 

administration committee, finance committee, 

education committee and am currently a cadet 

counselor. I believe that these experiences along with 

the daily management duties of work would allow me 

to be a valuable part of the board. 

The Lord has richly blessed us and the ability to 

help continue to build his kingdom would be a 

wonderful opportunity. I see a tremendous 

responsibility for board members to make sure the 

mission of the school is followed. In order for this 

to happen they need to be involved in all aspects of 

the school and its functions. 

2005-2006 

ANNUAL REPORT 

17

Board Nominees Continued 

Doug Wielard 

Wheaton Christian 


I grew up in Denver, Colorado, 

and Pella, Iowa. I met my wife 

Sue while attending Dordt 

College. Sue and I moved to Chicago’s western 

suburbs shortly after college and now reside in 

Lisle. We have been blessed with three children: 

Ross, a graduate of Timothy Christian High School 

and a freshman at Calvin College; Clay, a junior at 

Timothy; and Krista, an eighth-grader at Timothy. 

We are thankful for the excellent Christian 

education that Timothy has provided for our 

children. Timothy provides a wonderful Christian 

community and it has been a blessing to become 

involved in that community. 

Having been privileged to attend Christian schools 

throughout my life, I believe that a Christian 

education is important to help one see and 

understand God’s hand in all aspects of his 

creation. This can help our children to truly 

appreciate the power of God, the blessings he has 

given to us, and the responsibilities that go along 

with these things. With that foundation, our 

children can grow into effective Christian disciples. 

I have a degree in management information systems 

from Dordt College, and a graduate degree in computer 

science from North Central College. I worked at AT&T 

Bell Laboratories for nine years. I am currently a Senior 

Vice President, Information Technology Executive at 

Bank of America. As a member of Wheaton CRC, I 

have served as deacon, treasurer, and chair of the 

Christian Education Committee. 

I feel the lessons and experiences of my career have 

taught me how to lead and manage an effective 

organization and to work with diverse groups of 

people. I believe I can draw on these and other life 

experiences to contribute to the Board’s mission. I 

see serving on the Board as one way I can 

contribute to fulfilling our biblical call to provide 

for the children’s instruction in the faith. 

Our responsibility as board members is to insure that 

the school’s leaders, teachers and curriculum fulfill the 

purposes laid out in Timothy’s mission statement. To 

fulfill this mission we must provide an environment 

where Christian love and living are demonstrated and 

children are supported and encouraged to grow and 

develop as Christian disciples. 

Deanna Wondergem 

Elmhurst Christian 


I firmly believe in the trio 

concept of school, family, and 

church as a combined front to 

educating our children. Not only do I view serving 

on our school board as a privilege and a great 

responsibility, I desire to be an extension of the 

family perspective in the aforementioned trio. 

Being a stay-at-home mom for the past 13 years 

has blessed me with the opportunity to spend both 

quality and quantity time with our children at 

home and in their classrooms. I would bring to the 

Board a direct and hands-on perspective of the 

needs and interests of busy Timothy Christian 

households. I also have a strong interest and 

pursuit in fitness and nutrition. These are two 

areas that significantly impact the development of 

our children. 

Our Board of Directors can uphold our mission 

statement by ensuring that our curriculum and our 

approach to extracurricular activities are firmly 

rooted in our Reformed Christian perspective. 

These decisions require integrity, prayer, and using 

God’s Word as our primary guide. 

I graduated from Timothy Christian in 1985, and 

from Calvin College in 1989 with a B.S. in 

therapeutic recreation. My husband, Ed, and I have 

been married for 16 years and we have four 

children. Our children Anna, Marcus, Kaila and 

Janae are currently in seventh, sixth, fourth and 

first grades. 


Ballot 

Ballot 

Timothy Christian Schools Board of Directors 

June 1, 2006 

Timothy Christian Schools Board of Directors 

June 1, 2006 

Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church 

Please check yes or no for 

each candidate listed. 

Yes No 

Kyle Buikema ■ ■ 

Deanna Wondergem ■ ■ 

Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church 

Please check yes or no for 

each candidate listed. 

Yes No 

Kyle Buikema ■ ■ 

Deanna Wondergem ■ ■ 

Faith Christian Reformed Church Elmhurst 

Julie Huisman ■ ■ 

Faith Christian Reformed Church Elmhurst 

Julie Huisman ■ ■ 

Lombard Christian Reformed Church 

Leslie Fazio ■ ■ 

Lombard Christian Reformed Church 

Leslie Fazio ■ ■ 

Western Spring Christian Reformed Church 

Dan Westra ■ ■ 

Western Spring Christian Reformed Church 

Dan Westra ■ ■ 

Wheaton Christian Reformed Church 

Doug Wielard ■ ■ 

Wheaton Christian Reformed Church 

Doug Wielard ■ ■ 

At Large: Rock of Ages Baptist, Maywood 

Cathy Mc Neil Stein ■ ■ 

At Large: Rock of Ages Baptist, Maywood 

Cathy Mc Neil Stein ■ ■ 

Absentee Ballots must be put into an envelope 

with signature on the outside. Bring to the Society 

meeting or to a school office by Tuesday, May 30. 

Absentee Ballots must be put into an envelope 

with signature on the outside. Bring to the Society 

meeting or to a school office by Tuesday, May 30. 

2005-2006 

ANNUAL REPORT 

19

SPECIAL FLIP-BOOK: TURN OVER FOR THE SPRING REFLECTOR 2006 

Annual Society Report 

The Annual Meeting of the 

Timothy Christian Schools Society 

will be held on Thursday, June 1, 2006, 

in the Huizenga Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. 

2005-2006 

188 W. Butterfield Rd. 

Elmhurst, IL 60126 

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED 

Non-Profit Org. 

U.S. POSTAGE 

PAID 

Elmhurst 

Permit No. 306

Reflector - Timothy Christian Schools

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