Christian Schools Blogsite Discussion

Lancaster Mennonite High School, in Lancaster, PA USA starts its video by saying their are different. They are talk about God, Jesus and pray. They can approach problems and the world from a totally different viewpoint.

One student talks about how the teachers enjoy what they do. Another talks about loving the options.

It is refreshing to hear a promotional video talk about students going into a welding shop or carpentry business. The school has students from different cultures and talks about the positive dialogue which happens as a result.

For another parent and staff member the school reminds her of the body of Christ where everybody is working and learning together.

Part of the school's vision has been having better academics than surronding schools and the results are very strong.

The Christian faith is integrated into the curriculum. One teacher talks about how Christians are expected to have higher standards and required to make the best of their God given abilities. Students are expected to be prepared for life rather than just college. They want students to live a godly life which is pleasing to God.

 

Iowa Mennonite School (IWA) introduces this video by making it clear that students will be enouraged to follow the teaching and example of Jesus Christ as interpreted by the Anabaptist / Mennonite theology.  This sets the tone that Christianity is central to the life of the school and not just the name.

Church and family are recognised as working together to develop a child's faith. The school's role is to add to that.

One student comments that students felt comfortable being themselves. They act and dress differently and teachers act as mentors and are on a first name basis with all students.

Teachers talk openly about their faith. One teacher who came from a public school background initially didn't like the school. But she grew to appreciate not having to cover up her faith as she had to in a public school. The sense of community is mentioed among staff and that it is more than a job.

Daily chapel takes various forms. There are debates about faith to help students consider, question and articulate their beliefs. As it a smaller school everyone knows everyone else by name. One parent comments that the size actually helped rather than hindered their daughter.

Preparation for college is a major factor and by mentioning that former students felt better prepared than others around them is important. Another parent who was relatively new to the Mennonite church community talks about how he felt and how his questions were addressed. One parent says that many parents decide not to attend the school due to distance. She had decided distance will never be a factor and talks about the benefits it has provided.

Overall a good video addressing prospective parent's concerns and questions.