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!)
John Hendrikse
I graduated from University of Michigan in 2008 with a BA in Secondary Education specializing in History and Political Science. In 2010, I deployed to Iraq with the Michigan National Guard as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. After a year of service I returned home and married my wife, Leanne. Shortly after this, we moved to Arizona where I taught History at a boarding school. We spent three years at The Orme School, which was located in the high desert region in northern AZ (directly between Phoenix and Flagstaff). I was hired by South Christian in 2014 and we have enjoyed making our home back in Grand Rapids. I was raised in Grand Rapids where my Christian community was vital in shaping my life as a disciple. I hope to succeed as an educator in promoting continued discipleship for young men and women in this community. We live in Cutlerville and have two children, David and Annaliese, who attend Legacy Christian.