Faith Based Education in Public Schools ~ a Partnership

Tonight I had the pleasure of attending an info night for a Christian program option with the Rocky View School District in Airdrie.  Until a few months ago I didn't know it was possible to for a public school to have a Christian option.  When I was looking into schools for Morgan and where we live I stumbled on info for Christian Program choices with RVS.  There are currently two schools offering the program.  One in Cochrane and one in NE Calgary.  When I read about them I told Adam how I hoped that one day there would be that choice in Airdrie too.

Well, earlier this year I read an article in the Echo, Christian program a go.  I was very excited.  So I've kept my eyes and ears open since June, waiting patiently for more info.  Tonight I got that info and I was very encouraged.

From my understanding, it is a public school with a Christian program, similar to how some schools have english and french immersion programs in one school.  They will be following the Lutheran belief structure of Christianity, but are open to all children of all faith backgrounds.  As long as they receive 30 registrations for the September 2012 start, the program is a go.  I personally have no doubt they will acheive that number.

I remember how small Whitefield Christian Schools were when it first opened.  We were so small that our classes fit in the basement of our church.  Back then it was still called Whitefield Christian Junior Academy.  It was only 2 or 3 years into the school, that the first school building was bought.  Later the school grew to a new building being built on the adjacent property, with the addition of all grades.  It was amazing.  I was fortunate to attend from grade three through to the end of grade five and it shaped me forever!  My mother knew it was the place for us, eventhough it was a private school and she was on a fixed income.  How she did it, I just don't know, but she did and I'm forever thankful.

My family and I are still in the talking stages of this opportunity.  I'm hopeful and encouraged that it's even a choice.  Wow!  What a way we've come where faith based learning can be included in public education!!!

For more info:

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church ~ click on Christian School
Shepherd of the Hills Airdrie Lutheran Church Facebook group

Rocky View Schools  ~  403-945-4000  (I believe the Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Program will be added to their website at a later date)