The last two weeks were emotional for students and staff at Community Christian School.
On Feb. 3, Sylvia VandenHazel, a beloved member of the community, passed away after a two-year battle with cancer.
“Sylvia dedicated a significant portion of her life to our school, eight years as a student and 20 years as a teacher,” stated school principal Raymond Verburg in the Feb. 8 edition of the school’s Newsletter.
“She not only was a part of the community, but she had a lasting impact upon the lives of students and staff.
“She led a meaningful and purpose-filled life, which creates a great sense of loss. She demonstrated her love and care for the students of our school over the past two years when she was not teaching.
“Even though she was sick and receiving treatment, she visited the school, specifically to visit her students, every two weeks.
“The students never forgot her. Miss VandenHazel was constantly in their prayers. She cared for them and they cared for her.”
On Feb. 5, many of the school’s students celebrated her life through sharing stories, memories, games and songs.
“These were joyful expressions of time spent with Miss VandenHazel,” said Verburg.
“Miss VandenHazel, you were a great teacher, you were funny, kind and patient. You always had the best ways of helping us learn a lesson,” stated student Carter Slot in his tribute.
“Our school will be changed forever without you, but you will forever be remembered.”
“I have realized that you have taught me so many amazing life lessons. One that I treasure the most, is praising the Lord every morning and evening with songs,” wrote Kamryn Rumph.
“When you were first diagnosed, I realized how important you were and how so many things had to change just because one person couldn’t come to school anymore,” stated Jocelyn DeWeerd.
“While we will miss you, we do have hope; hope in eternal life. We celebrate that you are now in heaven.”
“When we first had Ms. VandenHazel as our Grade 3 teacher, she informed us that we would be singing every single day,” said Dyson Parker.
“We didn’t believe her and thought that singing would be so boring. However, we did sing every single day and it wasn’t boring at all.
“Ms. VandenHazel will be greatly missed. She loved our school, she loved the students and she loved teaching.”
