CHECKING-IN
Nurturing Spiritual Connections
Jamie Halula
on Spirituality
“As I begin my second year in this role, I am grateful for the people I have met– faculty, students, and parents. So many people have shared their hearts and insights with me, which has helped me to settle in and recognize the opportunities that are possible within the area Religious Education & Spirituality. Some of my favorite moments include observing students grow in their understanding and expression of faith, like our JOY Club Kids: Praise Team leaders. Another highlight was joining Mr. Ishaque’s Christian Apologetics class and watching how HKIS students engage with challenging questions. Reading to the R2 students is always a highlight… young children are deeply spiritual and ask incredible questions!
As I look ahead, I’m excited for the ongoing work of supporting teaching and learning in Religious Education, as well as co-curricular opportunities and events that nurture spiritual connections within our community. One of these community events is The Collective, which is held several times throughout the school year in the Church of All Nations.
● Jamie Halula, Religious Education and Spirituality Coordinator
Empathy and Belonging
Lindsay Ernst
on Service Learning
Service learning at HKIS calls us to be curious, listen deeply, and act with integrity.
“Stepping into this role has been humbling and energizing. I am continually inspired by the genuine care my colleagues bring to nurturing a community where students feel seen, supported, and empowered.
Over the past two years, I have witnessed the seeds of service planted at our school flourish. Teachers design learning experiences that invite students into meaningful connections— through ecological surveys, intergenerational storytelling, buddy reading, and sharing meals with refugee families. Students engage in inquiry-driven learning rooted in our community partners' strengths.
A highlight was overhearing Middle School students discuss systemic inequality after sharing lunch with refugee families. One student expressed gratitude to the organizers saying, “Thank you for making this possible. Meeting those families makes me want to learn more.” These experiences cultivate empathy, curiosity, and belonging.
Collaborating with colleagues to expand this work shapes my vision for service learning at HKIS: rooted in inquiry, connected to place, and driven by purpose. Service is about attention, curiosity, and a commitment to care.
Looking ahead, I am excited to co-create experiences that help students explore their identities and learn how to serve the world. Service learning at HKIS calls us to be curious, listen deeply, and act with integrity.
- Lindsay Ernst, Service and Experiential Learning Coordinator