I graduated from SCHS in 1984 and attended Calvin College. I always knew I wanted to continue my education in the sciences, but was unsure of what specific direction I would go in science. A volunteer tutoring opportunity during my 3rd year of college helped me come to know that I wanted to use my science background in the field of education. By the time I graduated from Calvin College in 1989 I had a major in biology, and nearly a second major in chemistry, as well as a major in secondary education. My first three years as a teacher were spent at Dutton Christian Middle School. Then, in 1992, when South Christian became a four-year school, I began teaching 9th grade science and chemistry in the Community at SCHS. I have been here ever since. I am married to Dave Haagsma. Together we have four children. We attend Heritage Christian Reformed Church in Byron Center. Our family enjoys camping together and taking extended road trips. (We have driven straight through to Key West . . . twice!)
Jill Haagsma
Biography
Faith Statement
One of my favorite verses is Romans 1:20. “For since the beginning, God’s invisible qualities – His eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made . . .” This verse describes to me that the character of God can be revealed to us through His handiwork. In my teaching of chemistry and other science topics, I strive to show my students the amazing quality of God’s works, and how even at the sub-microscopic level the amazing order of creation is obvious. In addition to standing in awe of His work, I also want my students to gain a stronger understanding of our responsibility to care for it (Genesis 2:15), and to gain the knowledge necessary to do just that.
