I received my Bachelor of Music Education with Viola Performance Honors from Grand Valley State University. I started and currently run the orchestra program at Byron Center Christian School, spent one year at West Side Christian School as their orchestra director, and now I am grateful to be serving South Christian and Dutton Christian as well. Outside of sharing my love for music with my students, I perform with the Vintage Parlor Orchestra based in West Michigan, and I am actively involved in the community theatre scene as a stage manager and pit musician. I also enjoy walking in parks, drinking chai lattes, spending time with friends, and hanging out with my cat named Brian.
Ashley Kooistra
Biography
Faith Statement
My faith journey didn’t begin in the most traditional of ways; it actually started when I was sixteen and my best friend passed away. When I was going through the most difficult time of my life, a dear friend’s mom became my spiritual mentor, and she walked with me as I wrestled with the difficult questions surrounding faith, while also revealing the many ways God has been so faithful, even in the silent moments. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support and guidance of those who helped me to understand and truly feel God’s love. I’m humbled to be in this position to encourage and serve the students of South Christian as they navigate their own stories of faith, too.
