We decided it was time to introduce the new families who joined us this School year! We want to welcome the Kingdon family to our Solid Rock community!

Tell us a little about your family.

Joe and I met late in our college years at Illinois State and have lived in Central IL ever since. We moved to Groveland in 2020 after having our second son, Charlie. Now with our three boys; Harlen in Kindergarten, Charlie (almost 4), and Baker (4 months) we feel settled and loved in this community that we call home! We spend our weekends making the most out of whatever Midwest weather we’ve been dealt, with the boys always asking to help in the yard or with construction projects. When we get the chance to travel, it’s the beach for us. As much as we enjoy a hike or scenic tour, the sun and sand have our hearts. 

What is your favorite part or what excites you most about Solid Rock? 

We have enjoyed and made the most out of our extra “weekend” day – Friday FunDays are huge here! The day is often left open to snuggles on the couch, a trip north to visit family, or exploring a new place around the area. Having that special day for the brothers is a major win. 

What is your volunteer role at Solid Rock? 

As a former high school Family & Consumer Sciences teacher, I love that I have had the opportunity to bring some home-making skills to our school. The kids have seemed to love this extracurricular program and I have enjoyed getting to know them all! 

What is your child’s favorite part of school?

Harlen loves his classroom STEM boxes as well as his weekly job. He is always excited to share with us his role. 

What does your child want to be when he grows up? 

Harlen would like to be a garbage man. He has already claimed a spot in the driveway for where he will park his trash truck. 🙂 

What is your go-to family favorite dinner? 

Mexican! We mix it up; one week it will be nacho style, another burrito bowls, followed by a traditional taco Tuesday. 

What is a character trait you want to instill in your children?

We hope that our kids learn to recognize and develop true friendships where honor, respect, kindness and gratitude are at the forefront versus popularity and status. 

What would be a perfect family day for your family? 

We love mealtime, so I’d say all three meals together (being made and cleaned up by someone else 😉) at the beach. After nourishing our bodies, time to play and laugh together making all the memories seaside!! 

What is your advice to families that are on the fence about sending their child to Solid Rock? 

Pray about it, reach out to families that are within the Solid Rock family, and if you feel called to make a change in your child’s education path, go with that intuition! We were on the fence and we did those exact things, once we committed this allowed our hearts and minds to be at peace. Change can feel uncomfortable but OH SO rewarding!! 

We love the Kingdon’s and we love that they choose Solid Rock for their children’s education! Thanks for chatting with us!