Reasons

Looking for an alternative to a public school education for your child? Invest in your child's life — and your own peace of mind — through a Christian school education.

by Dan Burrell

I look forward to the start of school with a sense of anticipation and a sense of dread. I've always loved school — as a student, as a teacher, as an administrator. With three degrees in the field of education, I guess I'd better like school. But there's also a sensation of dread as well — mostly as a parent. It means less “free time,” more homework and practices and lessons, earlier bedtimes and a reminder that my kids are growing up faster than I could have ever imagined that they would.

Many parents are trying to decide where their kids will go to school this fall. Some will choose public school. Others will consider private schools. Those who are able will make a noble and wise choice of home educating their kids. Others still will enroll their children in a Christian school. While ceding the argument that home schooling is a good choice for those so inclined, I want to make the case today for Christian schools.

I'm a graduate of a Christian school, I used to teach high school English in a Christian school, I was the principal of a Christian school, I served as the president of the largest state association of Christian schools in the country, I've founded a local organization of Christian schools in Charlotte, N.C., and I'm currently the president of a private Christian school. My doctorate is in educational leadership and I have four children in Christian school. I tell you all of that to tell you I kind of know my way around a Christian school classroom.

Here's why I think you should check out your local Christian schools:

1. Christian schools usually provide a Christian worldview. There are really only two worldviews being taught:
   God's Word is truth or You can't trust God's Word
   
   How you view the Word of God will impact every decision that you make thereafter. A Christian worldview is not a given in every school that calls itself Christian, but for those that have this worldview, they are doing a great job of preparing their students to be salt and light in the world.
2. Christian schools provide a safer environment in which your child will be educated. Safer because of the kind of students that go to those schools. Safer because of the kind of teachers that teach there. Safer because of the kind of values emphasized. Safer because of the objectives and goals of their mission. Safer because of the direction a good Christian curriculum will provide. If we buckle up our kid's body when they ride in our cars, we should also be concerned that we protect their minds and souls when we drop them off at school.
3. Christian schools think long-term. We're not just trying to survive the year; we're trying to change the future. We care about where your kids go when they die. We care about how your kids view God. We care about helping your kids become good citizens and faithful church members. We care about training your kids to stay pure and healthy. We want them to view themselves as future leaders with a life's mission and calling. We want them to grow up to have stable homes and productive ministries. We're not in this because it is easy; we're doing this because we believe.
4. Christian schools establish patterns. A child's character is formed at an early age. That's why the influence of the Christian school teacher is so powerful. It's important that they learn their vowel sounds and multiplication tables. It's also important that they learn to obey God, tell the truth, use good English and positive language. We want them to learn that daily time with God is essential. Going to church for worship is important. Respecting authority and showing respect produces order and civilization. There's no better time to teach these values than while they are young.
5. Christian schools serve as your extension. That's right ... you may not be able to there all the time, but we are an extension of the Christian home. We are in partnership with the parent and the church for the good of our students and the glory of God.

If you haven't checked out a Christian school for your children, do it today.

Dan Burrell is the pastor of Northside Baptist Church in Charlotte, N.C. His column is published through EP News.
Originally published in EP News, August 2004. Used with permission. Copyright © 2004 Christianity.ca