2026-27 School Year Theme
Dear Zeeland Christian Parents and Families,
As another school year begins, I imagine many of us are carrying a mixture of excitement, gratitude, hope, and perhaps even a little uncertainty. Whether you're sending your youngest child off for their very first day of school or watching your oldest enter another milestone year, each season reminds us what a profound privilege it is to raise children.
As a fellow parent, I know there are moments when parenting feels deeply rewarding and moments when it feels wonderfully humbling. We celebrate growth, navigate challenges, pray countless prayers, and do our very best to point our children toward Jesus. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It is a privilege we never take lightly to walk alongside your family, as together we help children discover who God is, who He created them to be, and how He is inviting them to serve in His world.
This year, our school theme is Washed in the Waters, drawn from Acts 2:38: "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
When I reflect on baptism, I’m reminded that it is first and foremost a sign of God’s faithfulness and grace. Before our children accomplish anything, before they discover their gifts, before they find success or experience failure, God declares something far more important: You are Mine.
Our children are growing up in a culture that constantly asks them to define themselves by achievement, appearance, popularity, or performance. The waters of baptism tell a different story. They remind us that our deepest identity is not something we earn but something we receive. Our kids belong to Jesus Christ. Our kids are loved by Him. Our kids are washed by His grace, claimed by His covenant promises, and invited to live each day through the power of His Spirit.
That promise is for us as parents, too. There will be moments this year when our children flourish and moments when they struggle. There will be days when we celebrate and days when we wonder if we're doing enough. In every season, we return to the same good news: our hope has never rested in our own efforts but in the love of the One who has claimed us as His own.
At Zeeland Christian we are committed to guiding children to become rooted in God’s love, drawn toward others, equipped with knowledge and curiosity, and called to serve. Thank you for allowing us to partner with your family in this sacred work. Please join me in praying for all of the kids at ZCS, our teachers and staff, our Board of Trustees, and our entire Zeeland Christian community. Know that we are praying for you as well.
May this be a year in which every one of us is continually reminded of God's faithfulness and the incredible gift of belonging to Him. Together, may we help our children live confidently from the identity they have already been given in Christ.
Burn Bright,
Betsy Koop
Head of School