Janelle-Student Testimonial
"Remember this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously....Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver, and God is able to make all grace abundant in every good work." This is a passage written by Paul, in 2nd Corinthians. After nine years attending WCS, these words ring very true to me and I see ways of how we apply it to our days at school.
For example, here at WCS, we try to spread God's love to our community. One way of doing that is becoming aware of issues around us and how we can help. Our senior class participated in an environmental program sponsored by GM. We visited Cedar Creek and tested the water for pH, temperature, shade and dissolved oxygen. Now our class has decided to tackle our own local problem: Turtle Road Crossing. Together with Brad Hertner we are going to try to fix it. In addition, our teacher challenged us to tackle another issue and write an essay on it. Some topics were global warming, irrigation, water foot print and scarcity, water disease, habitat, and consuming freshwater.
Another completely different way to reach out to our community is by monthly visits to Caressant Care. We play euchre, shuffle board, jenga, snakes and ladders or just talk and listen to their stories. The residents enjoy having us.
Back in school, we are also called to "sow our seeds" within our own school community. One great way is our "Leadership" teams. These teams have replaced student council. Students realize how many different tasks they can sign up for around the school. We have an environmental team, snow shovelling team, library club, morning announcements team and many, many more. Personally, I think that this is a better system than students council because the weight is spread evenly between everyone. This also means jobs get done much faster!
One great example of this is our recent Spring play, Anne of Green Gables . Being in the play is a really fun experience even for those who think they can't act. There are opportunities for the sound, facilities and technician teams. I played one of the main roles in the play and was excited to get to know the younger actors also performing. Acting alongside is not only fun, it provides lasting friendships. The Directors give you feedback which will bump-up your performance.
Overall, this school is one of the most comfortable places I have been to. All of the teachers want students to grow in knowledge and become children of God. Since coming here, my faith has seeded and blossomed. I get a real sense of community and belonging when I participate here. I hope all students will feel the same way!
Janelle Kroondijk