Barry Veenstra

Barry Veenstra, Athletic Director

What do you love about Eastern Christian School?
The Christian community and common sense of purpose.

Why do you like teaching at Eastern Christian? What motivated you to become a teacher at Eastern Christian?
After spending 7 years in the world of sales and marketing out of New York, in which the only goal and reward had to do with profit margin, becoming a teacher brought the sense of purpose and fulfillment that had been missing in my life.

How do you teach a Christian Worldview in your classes at EC?
I cannot imagine teaching topics like personal health and fitness, exercise science, human sexuality, stress management, nutrition, or character education from any other perspective. To omit God and faith in Christ from the discussion would be to teach only a partial truth.

What is a unique experience, talent or interest that you bring to your classroom to help shape the learning experience of your students?
I am passionate about music and enjoy using/referencing it often in class.

What sets EC students apart from students in other schools?
Frankly, they are the type of kids I wanted my children to spend their formative years surrounded by, and are a big part of why my wife and I sacrificed to send four to EC from pre-K through high school.

The Eastern Christian tagline is “Engaging. Nurturing. Transforming.” How do you accomplish this in your role at EC?
As a coach I have the privilege of watching our players set the standard for sportsmanship as they remain competitive in league standings with mostly pubic schools. When they invite opponents to pray together after games, I believe I am witnessing the transformation of a sports crazed culture that puts too much emphasis on winning and self glory, and not enough on respect, humility, and using sport to bring glory to God.

What do you want your students to gain from having known you?
I hope they have caught at least a glimpse of Christ that they will remember when they are seeking direction as they face the challenges this life will certainly bring.