God is the Same 

As I began to write this article, South Christian High School transformed from a busy place of learning to a quiet place of reflection. And as I finish the article, summer is kicking into gear and half a dozen summer camps are starting. The campus is busy again. It seems stewardly to me that the building does not sit quietly for very long. We do not turn off the Christ-centered instruction in the summer but transition to developing kids’ talents in dozens of different areas of sport and play. This meets our mission–equipping students to lead Christ-centered lives and serving to their greatest potential–by living into the things kids love to do and developing relationships that honor Jesus. 
 
A few weeks back, I had the opportunity to be in New York City. One morning I woke up early and wandered down towards the edge of the Hudson River. I watched a few other early risers run by as the sunrise reflected off the buildings in New Jersey on the other side of the river. I found a bench, read the Bible, and watched as an initially quiet part of the city woke up. It actually felt very much like my morning routine in Byron Center, even though it was a dramatically different setting. 
 
This story from New York came to my mind as I thought about the transitions that are happening here. The high school building transforms from a school to a center for athletic growth. Seniors graduated from school into adulthood. Some of our staff are retiring or moving on to new career paths. Many of our communities find a new rhythm during the summer. But one thing does not ever transition. Hebrews 13:8 reminds us that, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” In times of transition, this is vital for us to remember and hold on to. 
 
It is possible that all this comes to mind because I, too, am transitioning. I am excited about the plan God has in store for me and know that this school is in great hands going forward. The staff, board, and particularly Aaron Meckes, the Interim Head of School, have been prepared for what is next and are firmly grounded in the unchanging nature of Jesus Christ. I am grateful to the community for the trust you placed in me the last eight years, and I will persist in praying daily that South Christian continues to nurture kids to love Jesus and obey His call to use their gifts and talents.  

—Jim Peterson, Head of School

Honors Convocation

Honors Convocation was held on Thursday, May 12 in the auditorium. This is a night to celebrate and honor the senior class by recognizing the scholarships and awards they have earned in areas of academics, arts, athletics, drama, leadership, music, and the potential for success. Congratulations, graduates!
 

Valedictorian & Salutatorian

This year South Christian recognized two students who have earned the top academic honors in the class of 2022. Zachary Logan is the Valedictorian, and Victoria Koorndyk is the Salutatorian.
 
Zach Logan, Valedictorian
Zach summarizes his journey of self-discovery at South Christian with these words: “I have discovered that I am able to do hard things,  including taking 5 AP classes even during swim season.” Zach has indeed excelled in an environment filled with rigor and challenges. As he reflects on his favorite moments on the swim team, in his classes, and in Campaigners, Zach has appreciated how his SC community has exposed him to a variety of great thoughts and ideas he otherwise would not have been aware of. He reflected, “God created us in His image, and the creativity He instilled in His people is amazing.” Zach’s curiosity, love for learning, hard work, and care for others have been evident to his peers and teachers alike. As Zach thinks about how he might serve God to his greatest potential, he says, “I believe that I will be put in situations daily, both small and large, that God will use me in…so while I don’t know exactly how I will impact the world, I have confidence in Him that He will put me EXACTLY where I am meant to be to do his work.” Zach is the son of Brett and Lynne Logan and plans to attend Calvin University, ultimately pursuing an MBA. Zach, we wish you God’s richest blessings as you continue to seek opportunities for building God’s kingdom in both small and large ways.

Tori Koorndyk, Salutatorian
When asked what her years at South Christian have helped her discover about herself, Tori responded, “I’ve learned that God gives everyone different tools; for me, I’m quiet and logical, and I can use those traits to honor God and serve others in unique ways.” Tori’s quiet diligence and strength have made a bold statement to her classmates and teachers. In her studies at South Christian, Tori has enjoyed classes that have encouraged her to ask hard questions and to seek a genuine understanding of the world. When thinking about how she might serve God to her greatest potential, Tori imagines herself serving quietly to make a difference in the lives of individuals and says, “I hope to inspire kids and teens to work hard but also to live in a God-honoring way myself.” We who have worked with Tori over the past years have seen exactly that in her: someone who works hard, inspires others in a quiet, behind-the-scenes way, and strives to live in obedience to God. Tori is the daughter of Jeffrey Koorndyk and Lori Hinds, and she plans to attend Indiana Wesleyan University to pursue math education or Spanish. Tori, we wish you God’s richest blessings as you continue to be obedient to God’s will for your life.

Congratulations Zach and Tori!

Calendar 

Special Dates to Note:

June 14 – Rod VanDyke Memorial Golf Outing

Athletic Department News