Are Christian schools different simply because we offer Bible classes, prayer, chapel, and other faith-related practices during the day? While those are vital aspects of helping our students be deeply rooted in God’s Word, our goal is to ensure learning not only helps students see God’s story but also helps them discover ways to live it.

For example, in 4th grade, teachers recently worked through a writing unit. Short-term goals centered on effective writing using the elements of poetry such as feelings, similes, rhythm, haikus, etc. However, the long-term target for the unit was “I can use my words to discuss and celebrate God’s story” which is also connected to a Bible learning target of “I can use poetry to express my thoughts and feelings about God.” The class was given the opportunity to share their work during chapel so that they engaged with a real audience. Ultimately, we wanted them to practice expressing their faith through writing.

We want our students to be effective writers and gracious communicators. We want them to be able to discuss and articulate their faith to those around them. The above excerpt is just one example of how we design learning so that we are intentionally working to be excellent, rooted, and prepared at Byron Center Christian. That is why we are here.

Andrew Reidsma

Director of Operations and Family Relationships