Educational Beliefs in the Light of Reformed Standards
We believe that all teaching and learning occurs within the context of fundamental views of life and society. Starting with the belief that God is the source of all truth, education becomes the exciting adventure of seeking to gain knowledge in all of its various facets under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Christian education at South Christian High School takes its perspective from the biblical view of God, humans, the universe, and their intertwining relationships.
Living Out Our Faith
Snapshots
While this idea may not be captured in a single photo, how the photo is framed, the lighting, the candid nature of the subjects, and the authentic learning that is illustrated in the photo do. The snapshots of the mission of South Christian are found in each student in each class who is equipped to live with Christ at the center and equipped to serve God to their fullest potential.
Teaching for Transformation
At South Christian, we believe in rooting all education in a Christian worldview. This means providing a fundamental understanding of Biblical stories and lessons, one which enriches our students’ academic and faith journeys.
Part of our commitment to faith-based learning is our application of Teaching for Transformation, a design framework for the creation of authentic, Formational Learning Experiences that are rooted in a transformational worldview.
Our partnership with Teaching for Transformation gives our teachers and staff access to the program’s learning experiences, Storyline, and Throughlines, or discipleship habits and practices, that guide our students through personal discovery of their God-given talents and paths.
Teaching for Transformation has empowered our school to be more intentionally Christian than ever before. The result is students who are excited about living out their authentic faith as part of the learning process."
– Jim Peterson, Former Head of School
Deep Hopes
Each year, teachers at South Christian are asked to create Deep Hopes for their students to serve as a guide in their classroom. These hopes serve as a guide for the classroom and encourage a deeper understanding between student and teacher.
My hope is that students will see God glimpses in their lives and give a glimpse of God to others."
I hope that my students will become discerning Christian readers, writers, and thinkers. We learn economic skills to make decisions based on Christian principles to further His Kingdom and pursue justice."
My deep hope is that students will discover new ways to use their distinct gifts to show God's love to others and, in turn, play their essential part in His story."
My deep hope is that my students would navigate their lives toward Christ and adventurously follow the quest He's planned for them."
From the Bible, South Christian derives the following beliefs, which provide the framework for education.
1. GOD We worship God our creator, sustainer, redeemer, and sanctifier.
2. THE BIBLE The infallible, authoritative, written word of God leads our discernment.
3. CREATION We enjoy stewarding creation for our Lord.
4. HUMAN LIFE We each reflect the image of God.
5. SIN Our fallen nature, constantly misdirecting our true meaning and purpose.
6. REDEMPTION Christ, as redeemer, restores the relationship between God and his creation and renews human life through his Holy Spirit.
7. THE GOSPEL The good news that salvation is the free gift of God, by grace through faith, not by our own works.
8. KNOWLEDGE Knowing God increases our depth of understanding and search for truth.
9. GOD’S KINGDOM Transcends all political and temporal boundaries.
10. CALLING God's people are called to transform culture through a broad spectrum of occupations; offering their whole lives to the establishment of God's Kingdom.
Our Faith Community
South Christian is deeply connected to the community and welcomes students from over 90 churches in the area. This is one of the many things that sets South Christian apart.
"Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it."
1 Corinthians 12:27
1. SCHOOLS Educate God’s children to be effective servants and stewards in God’s kingdom.
2. PARENTS Raise children to live Christ-centered lives.
3. TEACHERS Teach the students under their care in obedience to God.
4. STUDENTS Discover the purpose and plan God designed for their life.
5. COMMUNITY Support Christian education to advance God’s kingdom - pray, work, give.
6. GOVERNMENT Promote righteousness, justice, and all parents' rights to determine the nature of education for their children.
7. SOCIETY Encourage and embrace students to become responsible citizens of society.