Meet Tanis Hooker

Student Spotlight

Tanis, a friendly and kind-hearted person has been attending Noorthoek Academy since 2013, after graduating from East Grand Rapids High School. He is very interested in athletics. He swam for the EGR swim team for 4 years – his favorite race being the 50 Freestyle. He finished in the EGR Triathlon, loves to swim, snow ski, and is challenged by rock climbing at the Higher Ground Climbing Center. He also likes to travel and cheer for his favorite Michigan football teams, yes, U of M and the Lions.

He is very involved in the Central Reformed Church. He has many friends and will always say yes to social events. His 2015 Poem called “My Church” reads:

I feel peaceful and welcomed when I enter the door.
I was an active member of youth group.
Life long friendships were made.
I hope we grow our church with more young people.

He volunteers at Kids Food Basket, Holland Home and Addie’s Pantry, and is also an Independent Business Owner for Amway. He has lots of customers who love his products.

Tanis hopes to live independently in the future. Currently, he attends a life skills program at the Mayfield campus of Grand Rapids Public Schools where he is learning to overcome his visual impairment. Family is important to Tanis. Another recent poem reads:

My extraordinary grandma,
even in poor health, she prays for others.
Always listens. Never criticizes.
Her kind and generous spirit make her even more lovable.
My grandma lives life to the fullest,
inspiring me to persevere,
no matter what.

Noorthoek is a very special place for Tanis. He likes the classwork, being able to attend GRCC athletic events and being part of campus life. He especially enjoys having a voice in what and how they want to learn.