From Students
Dear Mr. Leenhouts,
Thanks again for this class - I just cannot believe how applicable each weeks' lessons are...this is truly the best class she is taking this semester...I'm afraid you have made 2 fans for life...she is already finding out which courses you teach and which ones she can take over the next 3 years!
The stuff that Tom is doing for Math is incredible - and Elizabeth loves it...
I did see where Marty asked the parents who had children in his classes to fill out an evaluation. I don't know what energy drink he's on, but I'd love to have some! I can honestly say that in all my years of education (even through my Master's Degree) and in all the years that Emily has been in Christian education, I've never come across anyone like him. He's a true blessing from God! What an incredible teacher -- what incredible lesson plans -- what an incredible sense of humor -- he is so creative!
Dear Mr. Hooks [Mr. Hoeksema],
Like others, I believe that you are the GREATEST, and thanks for being
such a wonderful teacher! I remember that, every time mom would pull out that "big blue book", I would always go run and hide (it's a history book that I used to do). But now when I go to pull out that history text, I'm so excited and can't wait to see what happens next! I'm so happy I finally learned to like history and appreciate my country. Of course, it couldn't have been done without you, though! You always made history interesting and provided some information to think about. Thanks for always being there for me!
Here is my last history assignment before the final. Thank you for this year of history, I believe I learned more about American history this year than ever before and have taken a deeper look at many things in society. Your class allowed me to write about and think about so many things, so I could formulate more views and see new ideas. You didn't make us just read and memorize bare facts, so I feel I gained something really rich and got to think more about different perspectives in history. I really learned from and appreciated your view of history as it came across in all your lessons and assignments. Thank you=) I really did enjoy it.
From Parents
Your school has just been an amazing opportunity. It has drawn Sean and me very close together as we've worked side by side on it every day. And Marty's course has helped keep Sean on fire for the Lord as his youth group has been going through a transition that dimmed his sights a little bit. We just can't thank you enough, and we are thrilled to see how successful and widespread the school has become. May God continue to bless you richly… “Thanks” just doesn't say it, but thanks anyway! We have been blessed by your school beyond measure.
Sheila,
Just wanted you to know that I LOVE how you are challenging Ashley…English is her best subject, and the content I've seen so far is outstanding.
Thank you for all you're doing!
I wanted to thank you for your notes to Jessica and the encouragement you give her. The extra time and attention is greatly appreciated!
We are enjoying the Math teacher so much--he is fun and available (responsive).
Just wanted to tell you ... I've also been reviewing the lessons, and I'm very impressed with both the material and the extra "personal" applications you've put in. I'm anticipating a year of real personal spiritual growth for Nick, and I'm excited to see it! Thank you!
The classes are challenging and not boring. The teachers create lessons that complement the textbooks, so the kids aren't just reading the text and answering questions at the end of each chapter. The creativity of the NSA teachers brings the lessons to life. Our family especially enjoys the history and Bible classes. Our kids are learning so much! I also like the fact that all the teachers are Christians, and the lessons direct the students to explore what God's word says about the particular topic they are studying.
We just have to say that NorthStar Academy is truly the highlight of our daughter's life as a TCK. She loves being in charge of her own schedule - and she REALLY likes all the new kids she is meeting from around the world. As parents, there are so many things we like about NorthStar…
I sincerely appreciate the patience of the teachers, that we had missed turning in a couple of weeks’ assignments. But we are moving ahead with more confidence now.
We feel very fortunate that our children have been able to attend NSA. I know they have had and will have a good education. My oldest daughter received scholarships totally $11,000 a based on her grades at NSA and her SAT score, so this has enabled her to go to a private Christian university. I really feel the Lord led us to NSA, and we are very blessed to have had this opportunity for our children to be a part of NSA.
I have been completely satisfied with the quality of instruction at NSA. The teachers are very prompt, helpful, and give excellent guidance (both to the student and to the parent supervisor). The level of instruction is very challenging so the students are given a quality education.
The classes are rigorous so you need lots of discipline and motivation. It does require organization, and the parent needs to keep an eye on the progress. So it does require some hands on for the parent supervisor.
The school and the teachers become a part of your family. Each teacher has a unique personality, and that shows through in their lesson plans… During the past two years, a few of Emily's teachers have become like family to me. I will correspond with them throughout the summer months. The support they give, their availability, and their commitment to help are outstanding.
Thank you both so much for your encouraging words. You don't know the weight it released from my shoulders. But then, I should have expected no less, based on my experiences with NorthStar throughout this year. All of you have proven to be not only dedicated educators, but also committed Christians who understand the delicate balance of love and discipline required in raising children. You have been unbelievable!