Do you love great stories? Do you love movies? ESPN’s 30 for 30 is a film documentary series that focuses on extraordinary stories from the world of sports. Some stories are about current issues, some are funny, and others are cautionary tales. These ESPN Films productions are captivating and they will spark discussions within our class. We will make the stories relevant by exploring them through the lens of sports fans everywhere. Each day we will watch a few selections from ESPN’s film library and discuss that story’s impact on society. Each of the films in this series is meant to tell an intimate, compelling story that stands on its own and brings to life the filmmaker's vision. Collectively, however, these creatively different films weave together a diverse tapestry of what sports has meant to culture.

No Fee

Keith Anderson

Imagine diving into your favorite book while surrounded by the inviting ambiance of a coffee shop or the quiet charm of a library. In this Winterim course, students will embark on a cozy journey through the world of books and the communal spaces that foster connection—cafés, libraries, and bookstores. We will explore literature in third places, engaging in discussions, writing, and reflection, all while sipping coffee and enjoying warm atmospheres that encourage creativity and thought. Through this course, students will develop a deeper appreciation for the role of community spaces in learning and storytelling.

Goals/Objectives:

-Cultivate a love for reading and literature in unique, real-world settings.

-Understand the concept of third places and their role in fostering community and discussion.

-Develop critical thinking, creative writing, and reflective reading skills.

-Connect with younger readers through reading aloud and service opportunities.

Students will engage in a variety of activities such as visiting places in town (library, coffee shops, bookstore, PCGS), discussing books, reading to children, pairing food with books, writing to authors, etc.

Important Info: A love of reading or a desire to read is an essential part of this class! Students should also be prepared for frequent field trips within Pella.

Fee: Small budget for Coffee

Bekah Gorkow

• Crocheting is a great way to relax, to bless others, and to build community.  In this course we will be doing all three of those things.  Crocheters of all abilities are welcome to join the class.  We will start by learning the stitches needed to crochet edgings around fleece to make beautiful lap blankets.  We will give these lap blankets to residents of care facilities on the last day of class.  When each student completes their lap blanket they will spend the rest of the class crocheting a bookmark similar to the ones shown.  We hope to have volunteers come in to share their expertise with beginning crocheters and to show their treasured crocheted items or what they are currently crocheting during our daily coffee time break. At the conclusion of the class the students will take with them their bookmark and a life-long skill.

No Fee

Sandy Van Veldhuizen

Develop your culinary skills by learning to create tasty treats and learning the art of hospitality.  You’ll experience life and faith as you embark on this mouthwatering journey.  Enjoy delectable dishes that will delight your senses.  We’ll spend one morning at The Cheesemakers Inn, a local bed and breakfast to learn hospitality and culinary skills.  Another day we'll explore Dutch cuisine.  Culinary Creations will take you on a voyage through the vibrant world of flavors from appetizers, everyday comfort foods, delectable desserts, classic family dinners, and feasts for special occasions.  We’ll explore the art of cooking while creating delicious memories!  Tie on your apron and head to the kitchen to savor some tasty treats that God has in store for you!

$30

Dr Pam Vande Voort

High school is the perfect time for career exploration.  Try fashion and design on for size! 

During Winterim week we will explore the fundamental components of the fashion and design industry to see if it may be a fit for you.  We will discover how fashion and design components are fundamental in creating Dutch costumes.  Dutch costumes are an integral part of the Tulip Time festival and every year costumes are made, altered, and repaired.  You're invited to acquire the knowledge and skills to create and maintain authentic Dutch costumes that preserve and promote the Dutch Heritage of Pella.  If you are from a family with Dutch ancestry, you may wish to determine the province or village in the Netherlands you are affiliated with so you can research those Dutch costumes.  During the week you will create a hard copy portfolio with fashion and design information.

No Fee 

Mrs. Evans

• You can't pour from an empty cup—when we neglect our own well-being, we eventually run dry, leaving little energy or joy to share with others. This class focuses on nurturing spiritual, physical, and creative wellness, helping you become whole—ready to love Jesus deeply and serve others with joy and strength. Through movement, reflection, creative expression, and acts of kindness, we’ll explore how faith and fitness work together to build strength from the inside out. Each day offers space to recharge, connect with God, and grow, preparing you to pour love and care into the world from the overflow of a full, healthy heart.

No Fee

Rachel Renaud

The following will be explored during the class.

• 1. What is Jazz

• 2. Elements of Jazz

     improvisation

     rhythm

     sounds and instruments associated with jazz

     harmony

     form

• 3. Jazz’s Roots, New Orleans, Ragtime, and Dixieland (1900-1930)

• 4. Big Band Swing (1930s)

• 5. Bebop (1940s)

• 6. Cool, Hard Bop, and Modal Jazz (1950s)

• 7. Avant Garde/Free Jazz; Fusion (1960-1990)

• 8. Jazz Today; Jazz Tomorrow (1990-2000+)

No Fee 

Mr. Merrin

Watch and do Mythbuster Science!   We will watch episodes of Mythbusters and then do our own experiments.  Thermite and Ice, Ping-pong Cannon, Killer Playing Cards, and more!  Hands-on science the Mythbuster Way.

$50

Greg Beekhuizen

Photography can teach us a lot about God's perspective! This class is for students who have an interest in photography.. no prior experience necessary. Using a combination of interactive discussion, demonstration, and on location practice, this course will explore basic photographic and artistic techniques. Students will need a digital camera with a memory card or a DSLR camera. In the past, students' photographs have been used on the social media pages of local businesses and charitable organizations, such as Love Inc and The Well. 

$10

Joni Van Der Pol 

Salt & Light - Salt and Light will expose students to local organizations that rely heavily on volunteers to meet their goals. Scripture teaches that the greatest Kingdom citizens are those who serve others. In addition to the encouragement from scripture to love and serve others. This winterim will allow students to work on service projects in the area and learn what it means to serve. Salt and Light will provide students the opportunity to give back to their communities in meaningful service. Students also will learn what it means to serve others and the benefit they can get from serving others. 

Objectives.

1.) Students will research the organization's mission statement and volunteer opportunities.  

2.) Students will participate alongside current volunteers or paid employees within each organization.

3.) Students will respond to journal or discussion questions for each day. 

4.) Students will practice their conversation skills with other volunteers/employees and those that are served.

$20 (Lunches, etc)

Jacob Baker

Want to get in touch with your creative side? Join in on this class where we will transform old t-shirts into beautiful, functional art! In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn the art of making t-shirt yarn from upcycled fabric, turning textiles that might otherwise end up in landfills into something truly beautiful.

Once we've crafted our yarn, we'll dive into the exciting process of rug-making using hula hoops as our foundation. This unique approach not only allows for a fun and exciting project but also helps us to explore innovative ways to create with sustainable materials.

Throughout the class, we'll embrace our roles as beauty creators, earth keepers, community builders and servant workers. By repurposing textiles, we will actively reduce waste on the earth God created and also create beautiful projects that allow us to serve others, by donating our projects to help those in need, all while building our community here at Pella Christian.

I am so excited to be able to create with you!

No Fee

Mrs. Hoffner

• Have you ever heard a really talented pianist and thought, "Wow, I wish I could play like that." Well, now you can! Most people don't realize that playing piano is both an art and a science. Once you understand both sides, learning to play is simple. In this course, students will learn basic piano proficiency skills with the goal of helping more people learn this amazing instrument. 

• Topics of study include scales, note reading, basic theory concepts, chording techniques, reading chord symbols, and playing left hand accompaniment with a right hand melody. As students explore these topics, they will discover that playing the piano is both enjoyable and rewarding.

No Fee

Aaron Fitzgerald

We will help you understand how we use technology in sound and lighting to enhance the performances on stage at PCHS. We will learn the basics of microphone use, audio requirements and understanding for audience enjoyment. We will also try to understand the basics of lighting console operation while we are "Painting with Light" to direct audience attention, distract the audience, or set a "Mood" for a scene. We will discuss some of the underlying science and art that makes theater technology an expected tool for performances as well as enhancing worship experiences in church.

No Fee

Daryl Van Zee

Join Triumph Martial Arts for an empowering Think SAFE Self-Defense Workshop as part of the Pella Christian High School Winterim program! This comprehensive workshop covers defense techniques against grabs and chokes, both in standing and ground positions, and offers valuable insights into self-defense strategies, situational awareness, and personal safety. Our expert instructors will help you gain confidence, recognize potential threats, and develop practical self-defense skills. Whether you're a beginner or have some prior experience, this class is suitable for all levels, providing a safe and supportive environment for hands-on practice. Invest in your personal safety and empowerment by enrolling today and be prepared to TRIUMPH over adversity!

No Fee

Instructors:  Matt and Christy White/Audra Faber

In this course, we will venture through the many ways we can come alongside the person of Jesus in our daily life. We will explore a variety of spiritual disciplines found in the scriptures, including prayer, sabbath, service, silence and solitude. My hope for this course is that students would be invited into deeper relationship with God and be empowered to walk with Him in new ways. 

No Fee

Mrs. Dirksen