School choice important for Montana
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Is a private Christian education a good fit for every family in our valley? Probably not, but if you want to intentionally lead your children in following Jesus, I believe a Christ centered education may be the best choice for you. We are fortunate to have this option in the Mission Valley and there are many families who are glad they made this choice.
I believe there are some good public schools in our area and many solid educators doing their level best to provide quality opportunities for students in our area. This article is not meant as a criticism of their efforts but because of the limitations placed on them and the fact that even the name of Christ is removed from the environment, it makes it difficult to teach truth.
So, what would be the top five reasons to provide your children with a Christ centered quality education? As we celebrate Montana school choice week on Jan. 23-27, here are my thoughts for those who might not understand this opportunity.
First, at MVCA, we truly believe God has called parents to be the primary teacher in their lives. We partner with parents in this privilege and consider it a high honor to speak into our student’s lives. We see our job as an educational opportunity to be a direct extension of parental Biblical views.
Second, developing and teaching a Biblical worldview in all we do at MVCA reminds students that our relationship with God is not just for Sundays or Wednesdays but every moment of our lives are God breathed and sacred. Seeing each student as an image bearer of the Creator brings a sense of awe and wonder to our classrooms and it helps all of us grow in the fruits of the Spirit.
Third, studies show that Christian schools can offer a different quality of instruction. Smaller class sizes lead to more rigorous individual instruction and advance student learning. Students can’t slip through the cracks and can be held accountable for their actions. Biblical values are followed with respect for parents, authority and others being reinforced daily.
Fourth, the Christian school provides opportunities for your child to be a witness for Christ. There is a misconception that everyone that attends MVCA is a perfect Christian. Not true. We are simply a group of redeemed sinners who have been saved by grace, following Jesus Christ to the best of our ability. At MVCA, we strive for redemptive, heartfelt learning rather than silent conformity and wearing masks of fake religiosity.
The fifth (but not final) reason to send your child to a Christian school is that we provide a qualified staff that models Christ and is transparent with students. Sharing how God heals brokenness, praying with students and working through forgiveness from a biblical perspective is a blessing and a joy for our staff. We are intentional about counting the realistic cost of following Jesus while experiencing the blessings and hope of the Christian walk.
I believe school choice is important for Montana. What if parents could direct tax dollars toward MVCA just like they get to choose where to shop or receive health care? Parents currently don’t have that choice. Many, including our local representatives are working to make that possible. Montana did adopt a student scholarship tax credit program during the last legislative session and now joins 45 other states that offer some form of school choice options for parents. I think this is a good start, but also feel we have a way to go in allowing Montana families the option to direct their tax dollars toward the best investment they can make, their child’s education.
