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Parent Liaisons

Our Mission

Partnering with students, families, and staff to remove barriers by using an asset-based approach to ensure that all families can fully participate and be successful in Jenison Public Schools.

Our Values

Develop Relationships

Maintain Trust

Build Mutual Partnerships

Express Gratitude

Preserve Dignity

Asset Based

Build Bridges of Trust

Differences are a Strength

People Over Change

Who We Are

Jenny van Biljon (Bursley, Rosewood, Senior High)

Parent Liaison

Bursley, Rosewood, and Senior High

Jenny is in her second year as a Parent Liaison for Jenison Public Schools. Prior to this role, she spent 21 years as a classroom teacher, while teaching both 3rd and 4th grade. Jenny graduated from Grand Valley State University with a degree in Elementary Education. Her Master's Degree in Literacy is from Western Michigan University. In Jenny's spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and nieces and nephews, running and staying active outdoors. She is providing support to Bursley, Rosewood, and Jenison High School.

Mary Veldink (Sandy Hill, Junior High)

Parent Liaison

Sandy Hill and Jenison Junior High

Mary has been a Parent Liaison for Jenison Public Schools for eight years. Prior to being a Parent Liaison, Mary spent 25 years teaching third grade. Mary graduated from Hope College with a degree in elementary and special education. Her Master’s Degree is from Cleveland State University where she focused on Early Childhood Special Education. Mary loves spending time with her family and friends, traveling, reading, and playing pickleball. Mary provides support to Sandy Hill, and the Junior High.

Kris Faber (Bauerwood, Pinewood, ECC, El Puente, JIA)

Parent Liaison

Bauerwood, Pinewood, ECC, El Puente, and JIA

Kris is in her third year as a Parent Liaison for Jenison Public Schools. Prior to being a Parent Liaison, Kris spent 25 years as a school social worker for JPS. Kris graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in Psychology. Her Masters in Social Work Degree is from the University of Michigan where she focused on interpersonal practice and community organizing. Kris loves spending time with her family and friends, experiencing live music, and baking. Kris provides support to Pinewood, El Puente, the ECC, Bauerwood, and the JIA.

Rachelle Gelder (Administrative Assistant)

Parent Liaison Administrative Assistant

Rachelle has served the Parent Liaison Team as an administrative assistant for over 3 years. Rachelle brings supportive skills and an understanding of community needs, as well as her connections to many community resources to the Parent Liaison Program. She is our district DHHS navigator and assists families in navigating the MiBridges system. In her spare time, Rachelle enjoys spending time with her family, wedding coordinating, crafting, and time in the sunshine.

Partnership Model: Connecting families to community resources and supporting parent-teacher collaboration.

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Parent Liaisons

Our Values

Who We Are

Jenny van Biljon (Bursley, Rosewood, Senior High)

Mary Veldink (Sandy Hill, Junior High)

Kris Faber (Bauerwood, Pinewood, ECC, El Puente, JIA)

Rachelle Gelder (Administrative Assistant)

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