The Petros Family
What do you love about Oakland Christian?
We love Oakland Christian because we see how much the teachers care and pour into the kids! The way they bring Jesus into everything is amazing.
Why choose Oakland Christian?
We chose Oakland Christian for our family because we wanted our kids to go to school in a Christian school where what we taught at home can also carry over in school.
How has your child's faith grown at Oakland Christian?
One of the coolest ways I have seen our son grow in his faith is remembering Bible verse and having great questions about Jesus when he gets home from school
Describe Oakland Christian in one word.
Excellence.
Why consider enrolling at Oakland Christian School?
I would tell them it’s worth every penny!
Share your story HERE.
The Wegner Family
What do you love about Oakland Christian?
Our kids are known here. Their gifts are recognized and encouraged. They are not defined by their struggles, but given tools to help them succeed. At an upper level (middle and high school), where students have many teachers, and the teachers have many students, it is rare for students to be known individually as we've experienced at OCS with our kids. They are not only educated at a high level, but they are also trained up in the way they should go, being given opportunities and guidance based off the gifts they've been given by our Heavenly Father.
Why choose Oakland Christian?
Our family has had our kids in the public schools, homeschooled and now OCS. We chose OCS for our middle schoolers for multiple reasons. 1. We weren't happy with some of the things being taught in the public middle school. 2. While homeschooling worked for us when our kids were younger, there came a point where I couldn't give all of my kids what they needed - one needed extra support and a more social learning environment and one needed more of a challenge. OCS has provided these things for my kids. 3. We knew OCS was a great school from friends who had kids attending. 4. We didn't want to send them to just any private school in lieu of the public schools, we wanted it to be a truly Christ-centered school. When we did our research, OCS matched best with what we were looking for biblically.
How has your child's faith grown at Oakland Christian?
Having Bible class every day and Chapel every week has helped them know and understand the word of God that much more. And really, their teachers do a great job of bringing a biblical perspective into more than just bible class so that has been neat to see, for example, how they read a novel, and then are challenged to look at it from a biblical perspective. They've also grown in worship. As teachers recognized their gifts when it comes to vocal music, they've been encouraged and challenged in ways that have allowed them to see what using their gifts for God's glory looks like and that has lit a fire in them to continue using their voices for the Lord even more. I will also mention that my daughter did not want to come to OCS because she had good friends at her homeschool hybrid. She was afraid there was no way she could make as good of friends again. While in prayer, she said that God told her to go to OCS so she obediently went in with an open heart. Through that, she has been able to see God's faithfulness and has learned she can trust His voice and His leading in her life... I'm happy to report she has made many sweet friends at OCS this year.
Describe Oakland Christian in one word.
A blessing.
Why consider enrolling at Oakland Christian School?
Logistically and financially, sending our kids to OCS may be more difficult than sending our kids down the street to the public school. But the spiritual impact, the way the teachers know and encourage their students, the way the school does all they can to guide each child individually, and the way they point their students to Christ is enough to outweigh those things. In addition to these things, my kids carry a lighter emotional load home with them than when at public school, they don't have to sift through unbiblical/ untrue information, and we don't have to worry about authority figures that might encourage unbiblical worldviews in their young minds, but instead know they are surrounded by adults who love the Lord and encourage them in their faith. The families and staff have been so welcoming to all of us. It is a safe place for my kids to grow spiritually, educationally, and emotionally and I would make the same choice again if I had it to do over.
Share your story HERE.
The Welch Family
What do you love about Oakland Christian?
We love that OCS is a community and not just a school. We love that our son gets to go to school where he gets to pray daily and worship with friends.
Why choose Oakland Christian?
We chose OCS because we needed to tune out the noise that is going on in our world. Our son was looking for a place he could grow socially, academically, and spiritually. We as his parents needed a place that we could trust to always have his best interest. We also chose OCS because of the small class sizes and never having to change schools again. This allows him to form greater relationships with friends, teachers, and administration.
How has your child's faith grown at Oakland Christian?
Before our son came to OCS he was finding himself asking "why am I here? What is my purpose?" After spending a few days in the middle school there was a new light in his eyes. He found a place where people understood him and respected him. We see him reading the bible at night before bed and continuing to grow his relationship with God.
Describe Oakland Christian in one word.
Life-Changing
Why consider enrolling at Oakland Christian School?
Do it! We are so thankful every day that we have put our trust in Oakland Christian School. We have zero regrets.
Share your story HERE.
The Trbovich Family
What do you love about Oakland Christian?
There are so many reasons we love Oakland Christian. When our daughter walks through the doors each morning, she is greeted by name with a warm, friendly smile by the staff. We have experienced that not only does her teacher love her and is invested in her growth, but the entire staff is just as invested in her well-being throughout each day. We couldn't dream of a more nurturing, loving environment for our daughter to spend her school days when she is away from us. When your child says the best part of her days is when she gets to be at school, you know you're at a pretty special place.
Why choose Oakland Christian?
We chose Oakland Christian for smaller class sizes and a Christian education that extends beyond just what we do in our home. We love the values they teach of faith and the encouraging growth and development in both academics and spirituality. We love that each child is celebrated, loved, and learning to live righteously, serving God's Kingdom in a school setting.
How has your child's faith grown at Oakland Christian?
This is only our daughter's second year at OCS, and while she is still very young, we have seen her faith grow deeper. Her constant requests for worship music, reading bible passages, and wanting to learn more about God are more noticeable. However, the well-thought-out questions about God and leaning into God more when having a hard day are noticeable. Since her faith life is extended from home to school, we feel that God is at the forefront of her mind more. We love that she has faithful teachers whom she can talk to with questions too. We look forward to watching her relationship grow deeper in Christ as she grows older and continues her education at OCS.
Describe Oakland Christian in one word.
Love
Why consider enrolling at Oakland Christian School?
If anyone is considering enrolling their children, I would advise them to come and visit. When you walk through the front door, you will see what a warm, friendly environment OCS provides. (And the treehouse in the library is pretty cool too!) We attended an Open House and were hooked immediately. We feel so grateful to have found OCS for our youngest.
Share your story HERE.
The Coe Family
What do you love about Oakland Christian?
We love the feeling we get when walking through the school doors in the morning: a feeling of connectedness between school staff and their students/families. We love the small class sizes where teachers can focus on students' individual needs. We love that our children are learning in a God-focused environment.
Why choose Oakland Christian?
We chose OC for multiple reasons, but specifically for a Christ-centered education and for the exceptional Spanish Immersion program which both of our children at OC attend. OC seemed like the perfect fit for our family, and it has definitely proven to be the right decision thus far!
How has your child's faith grown at Oakland Christian?
Our children initiate discussions about God (awesome!) and recite Bible verses without being prompted. They make connections between Bible stories and their own lives and are applying what they are learning in school to their own experiences as they learn more about Jesus.
Describe Oakland Christian in one word.
Community
Why consider enrolling at Oakland Christian School?
A solid choice for their child's education and spiritual growth!
Share your story HERE.
The Choate Family
What do you love about Oakland Christian?
The feeling of inclusivity.
Why choose Oakland Christian?
We wanted to give our daughter the opportunity to grow within a community that would nourish her both intellectually and spiritually.
How has your child's faith grown at Oakland Christian?
Our daughter has just begun Kindergarten, so it is all new but she has told us about the songs she has learned and she is looking forward to Chapel.
Describe Oakland Christian in one word.
Welcoming
Why consider enrolling at Oakland Christian School?
We would highly recommend OCS! So far, our experience has been great and we look forward to the future.
Share your story HERE.
The Goetz Family
What do you love about Oakland Christian?
The teacher's passion for Jesus & our children radiates through the hallways of this amazing school.
Why choose Oakland Christian?
We fell in love with the tree house library, the small class sizes, the Christian education that was integrated throughout the entire day, and the feeling that we were a part of a family from the first day we walked in.
How has your child's faith grown at Oakland Christian?
Our children now openly pray at larger family gatherings, they constantly volunteer to lead the Christian pledge at chapel, are jamming to Christian music in their rooms while singing all the words, and most importantly they turn to God & pray with any feelings or struggles.
Describe Oakland Christian in one word.
A true blessing.
Why consider enrolling at Oakland Christian School?
It is life-changing in the best way. Our children are so happy here and so are we.
Share your story HERE.
The Meyer Family
What do you love about Oakland Christian?
The relationships our children have developed with their teachers, in elementary, middle school, and high school. They truly are known as individuals and cared for as a "whole" person in every sense of the word, not just solely focused on academics.
Why choose Oakland Christian?
First and foremost we chose Oakland Christian for the faith fit our family was looking for. Our oldest came as a Freshman and the AP Capstone Diploma track was of particular interest with the many AP course selections. Another child was specifically drawn to OCS for praise and worship band opportunities and smaller class sizes. We wanted a smaller, Christian environment without giving up academic excellence.
How has your child's faith grown at Oakland Christian?
All three of our children have grown in their faith tremendously. While they are involved in church programs, the partnering with teachers and home has provided growth we may not have seen otherwise. Having bible class as a core class each day, bible studies, and overall Teaching for Transformation model in all subject areas has aided in their faith journey. In addition, relationships with teachers has proved to be a source of personal connection for them to turn to with faith questions regardless of the subject being taught.
Describe Oakland Christian in one word.
Blessing
Why consider enrolling at Oakland Christian School?
Come and check it out! Take advantage of personal tours and shadow days for your student to visit OCS for a day so they can see it for themselves and experience why OCS is different and what makes it special!
Share your story HERE.
The McFarland Family
What do you love about Oakland Christian?
We love that our children are being/have been taught in an environment that matches what we provide them with at home.
Why choose Oakland Christian?
We chose OCS (way back in 2007!) for the Christian values and small class sizes that allowed more individual & personal instruction. We continue to choose OCS for those same reasons as well as for the relationships we have made while there.
How has your child's faith grown at Oakland Christian?
Since our kids have all been at OCS since a very young age, we haven't noticed any significant leaps or bounds in their faith, but we do know that the continual feeding has given them a strong foundation and we can't wait to see how God shapes them as they take responsibility for their own faith in adulthood.
Describe Oakland Christian in one word.
Home.
Why consider enrolling at Oakland Christian School?
Come take a look and fall in love with the OCS family. Don't be turned away by the cost. If God wants you there, He WILL provide! I never thought we'd be able to put 1 kiddo through Christian schooling, but here we are with 2 (lifer) graduates and a 3rd one making his way through. God cares about the desires of our hearts.
Share your story HERE.
The Johnson Family
What do you love about Oakland Christian?
We love EVERYTHING about OCS! The teachers are amazing! You can tell they truly love working with their students! Everyone is so friendly and caring! Our two girls love going to school because of the warmth and positivity that they feel at OCS!
Why choose Oakland Christian?
We were totally impressed with the Spanish Immersion Program! To have our children learning a second language is a gift that we cannot give them as we are not bilingual. It has been a wonderful program, and even though we are not Spanish speakers, our daughters have picked up the language and are doing great in the program (and their English reading and writing is great too!).
How has your child's faith grown at Oakland Christian?
Our girls love singing worship songs in chapel, memorizing Bible verses, and learning Bible stories in class! Their faith is growing so much by being a part of OCS!
Describe Oakland Christian in one word.
AMAZING :)
Why consider enrolling at Oakland Christian School?
It's the best decision you will ever make!
Share your store HERE.
The Brouwer Family
What do you love about Oakland Christian?
Evidently Christ-centered teaching, environment, and leadership. We love that the teachers and staff really love the Lord and want to help children learn how to love Him and others well. We love our son's teachers. The wonderful interaction we've had in communication with all the staff and teachers is so personal, honest, and eager to work with us to provide a wonderful learning environment for our student and family. The families are so friendly and friendships are built. We love going to chapel and seeing our student praise God along with his classmates.
Why choose Oakland Christian?
We prayerfully chose Oakland Christian for our student after looking at several Christian schools in the area. God used conversations with staff at OCS, and families considering our child's gifting and interests to lead us to choose to send our child to Oakland Christian. God has confirmed that choice for us since attending.
How has your child's faith grown at Oakland Christian?
Learning to lean on God in all circumstances. Learning ways we can worship Him in all aspects of our life. Our student didn't love to sing before and now loves to sing and worship God thanks to chapel songs he has learned to know well.
Describe Oakland Christian in one word.
Sincere.
Why consider enrolling at Oakland Christian School?
Pray about it. Definitely make a visit and see the environment for yourself. Talk to the teachers, staff, and families and ask the questions you have. Consider your child. Give Oakland Christian a try. You'll find a genuinely caring environment striving to be centered on Christ.
Share your story HERE.
The Courtney Family
Jason, Patricia, Keira (6th grade), Keigan (3rd grade)
We initially heard about OCS through friends. We love that it is a faith-based school with a focus on academics. We love the culture of the school, the support of the community, and the camaraderie amongst the students. We love the spirit wear!
Keira really enjoyed playing “Sourwood Mountain” with the Middle School Orchestra. She raves about Chapel and being moved by the worship, the talent, and being in community with everyone.
Some of the activities we’ve participated in include: Keira joined the Middle School Kindness Club during advisory hour. Patricia volunteers any chance she can although limited due to the pandemic The last activity was with the PTF. It was the post-it notes project! Leaving encouraging notes for the middle and high schoolers to fill their hearts was such a great idea, so fun!
Everyone has been so welcoming and helpful to integrate us in, Even with the restrictions of the pandemic which have limited so much.
The Sanchez Family
Manuel, Viviana, Adrian (6th), & Alexa (4th)
Education is the most important heritage for our children besides the Christian faith. They have always been attending private school. Their prior school did not offer Middle or High School. So it was time for a change when Adrian moved into 6th grade and we started looking for his preparation for college. The previous school was not a religious school. Therefore it was very important to us to find a school that would allow our children to freely express their beliefs in the Christian faith. That will not only encourage but will actively support their growth in the knowledge of Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Another important criterion for us was a school that would offer opportunities like AP Program in High school. After evaluating a couple of options we decided on OCS. We live in Oakland Township, so we were familiar with the school and we also have a couple of friends whose children attended OCS in the past and they recommended it to us.
We have felt welcomed from the beginning, the teachers and classmates have helped my kids to be integrated pretty quickly. Even though we have had little interaction with other families so far due to the pandemic. They both enjoy chapel and are learning important fundamentals in the faith and also how to defend their beliefs when they will be challenged. Both children were in the ski club. Adrian participated in the Science & Engineering Fair of Metropolitan Detroit representing OCS and he was awarded Second place for his project, "How Fast an Alka-Seltzer tablet Makes Gas?". He was also nominated to participate in the 2021 Broadcom Masters Science Fair.
What’s unique about Oakland Christian School is the online education platform and more importantly, the ability as parents to be able to oversee their students’ progress without having to be in constant contact with the teachers. This has been an extremely valuable tool for us this past year during the pandemic. And it will continue beyond this year. The teachers are always available when you need to speak to them.
The preparation to transition to online learning was solid. In Middle and Elementary school, online learning was not required this year, but we felt that the infrastructures were in place. And they were ready anytime when there is a quarantined situation, to make the switch seamlessly. Especially compared to last year when so many schools were scrambling to make online learning successful.
The school and Elementary communications keep us up to date with the school activities and how they have handled the pandemic. This has been very important to us. Alexa's teacher, Mrs. Hosmer has been a great support to her and definitively helped her to quickly integrate into the classroom. She is truly a blessing. The teachers challenge them but also offer so much support and praise to our children.
The Budzinski Family
Jesse, Amber, Cora (3rd), Sienna (Kindergarten), Mila & Brooks
Our family was drawn to OCS from its reputation in the community as being a school that teaches Biblical principles coupled with strong academics. We also felt very welcomed by the staff and current families that attended OCS to become a part of the school family. We knew our kids would thrive in a place like OCS and be shown and taught the Love of Christ in their classrooms while also being challenged academically.
Due to the current state of the country, we know it has been slightly different than past years to get involved and participate. However, we have been very thankful that the teachers have kept us informed on all the classroom activities and kept things fun and exciting for the kids! We look forward to being able to be more involved in person in the future. As a first-year family, we have only had close experiences with Mrs. Morga and Mrs. Ream. We have been blown away by how much they pour into our daughters and how they really focus on not just teaching them school work but also on developing their characters and encouraging them to make wise decisions and grow their relationships with the Lord. We are so happy with our decision to send our kids to OCS!
OCS is truly a one-of-a-kind place! From the frequent emails and devotionals encouraging the OCS families with scripture and prayer over our children to the teachers who continually update us as parents and pray over our students, I don't know of another school that strives to provide an excellent education along with instilling strong Biblical values all while making education so exciting and fun quite like OCS does.
The Kolb Family
Kevin & Madeline, Mason (12th Grade), Lucas (9th Grade), Colin (7th Grade)
We have been at OCS for 10 years. What initially drew us to OCS was first and foremost a school where our kids could talk about Jesus. We wanted them in a Christian environment where they would be challenged and grow closer to God. We can guide them at home, but kids are in school so many hours a day. We wanted them to be with Christian teachers and leaders who love them and help them to deepen their love for Jesus. With 3 boys, sports is also a big priority. We love that OCS offers so many different programs. We have good competition and great coaches. We also knew that OCS offered really good academics.
Some activities my kids have been involved in include football, basketball, baseball, National Junior Honor Society, National Honor Society, Battle of the Books, and Strings. I (Madeline) have always loved being involved in my boys’ activities. I have been a room mom during the elementary years, have been a chaperone for many field trips, was involved with the PTF, and have volunteered for many athletic events. I now work in the EEC as a preschool assistant. I have been there for 6 years, and still love seeing their little faces each day. Kevin has been involved in coaching football, basketball, and baseball throughout the boys' years.
We have had so many good memories here at OCS. We would choose this school all over again if we had a second chance. We love the positive Christian atmosphere, and how the teachers genuinely care for our kids. What is unique about OCS is that they teach the kids to embrace their faith and to live it out each day. Also, because it is a small school, we are able to really get to know the other families and develop some lifelong friendships.
The Fahey Family
Marty, Sunny, Isaac (4th Grade), Caleb (2nd Grade), Silas (1st Grade)
This is the start of our seventh year. We had our first experience with the preschool at the OCS Clarkston campus and have been blessed ever since. The teaching is phenomenal and it is reassuring to parents that each teacher is reinforcing the biblical principles that we teach at home.
The boys have participated in flag football & soccer club. We’re looking forward to more to come as they get older. We love going to the varsity football games on Friday nights and rooting for our Lancers! We also love attending the chapels to participate in worship with our children.
What initially drew us to OCS was the Christian education. Their reputation for a Biblical worldview and excellence in academics. What’s unique about OCS is that they’re uncompromising on Biblical teaching. Teachers have gone above and beyond to meet each boy’s personality, interests, and learning styles. As parents, we couldn’t feel more blessed!
The Lucido Family
Sebastian & Kris, Francesca (OCS 10’), Jack (Ocs 11'), Alexandra (OCS 12’), son-in-law Adam Exelby (OCS 12'), Isabella (OCS 15’), Victoria (OCS 17’), Antonina (OCS 19'), & Sophia (11 grade)
Before we get started, I don’t want you to view this like one of “those” family Christmas letters you dread reading. We have a lot of children. :-)
Our children are uniquely designed by God. With that being said, throughout the years our children have been involved in so many activities. Athletics plays a large part for many of our children. Our son was involved in football, baseball, bowling, and golf. The girls were involved in cross-country, track, bowling, volleyball, basketball, soccer, and cheerleading. Cheerleading was out of their comfort zone but taught them how to use their voice and get in front of a crowd. We love that some of our children could achieve All-American, and All-State status while others were just happy to be a part of a team and grow as individuals.
Our children have also been involved in OCS mission trips to China, Costa Rica and Mexico. On those mission trips, they learned that some of the happiest people were the poorest people. One of our girls went on a Europe trip. That trip was an amazing cultural experience. Our children have been involved with the National Honor Society, student council, peer tutoring, LEAD, Band, Side by Side, Home Economics club, Eco Club, and book club. Furthermore, our children have developed beautiful relationships with some of the International students.
We became part of the OCS family back in 2007, we have always desired a Christian education for our children from preschool through college. We want them to learn through the lens of the Word of God. Years ago, our first meeting with Doc Johnson, we felt comfortable with the Christian and spiritual aspects of OCS as well as the high academic standards. The students would gather, on their own, to have once a month student-led teaching and worship bonfires.
I’ve always dreamed of having a large family and being a part of each of my children’s lives. I have been a team mom, field trip chaperone, volunteered at athletic events, PTF, substitute teaching, room mom, lunchroom mom, and transition committee, and continue to assist the elementary staff with projects. I love laminating for the elementary, it’s free therapy. The paper goes in plain and comes out shiny!
What’s unique about OCS is that we appreciate the multi-faceted Christian thinking from a diverse group of dominations and non-denominational church members. We love the spirit of the school. OCS can balance high academics, “heart” work, spirituality, and have fun while doing it. The OCS student body has always embraced their peers for exactly how God created each individual regardless of their economic status, personal shortcomings or disabilities.
My advice to new families is to enjoy each and every opportunity to be involved in their children’s lives. They grow up quickly! You truly get what you put into it. Our family is still very connected with many OCS families from our initial years and enjoying the current families.
The Yates Family
We joined OCS last Fall (2019), what initially drew us here is knowing that Christ is the center of everything done at Oakland Christian. We've been around OCS for over 15 years as I (Josh) have had students that attended there (youth pastor). I have spoken in chapels and coached basketball over the years, I’ve even officiated a few basketball games, too!
Our girls have participated in activities such as HS Choir, Resonance (worship team), basketball, softball - Kylie, 4-5th Grade basketball, Battle of the Books, and iLead5 - Sydney. Some of the favorite things I like to volunteer for keeping score at varsity girls' basketball games, admissions/concessions at games, coaching 5th-grade girls basketball and helping coaches wherever I can (basketball/would've been softball, too!).
What’s unique about OCS is Jesus - pretty simple. We came from a public school and the difference is amazing. Our girls have deeper relationships with peers that share their beliefs and devotion to Jesus. They hadn't experienced that before...and it's invaluable.
For a new family coming to OCS...the biggest thing is to GET INVOLVED. Get to know some people. Spend time with teachers, coaches, and other families. It's a great place for our kids...and we are so thankful that God made it possible for us to be a part of OCS.
We love the OCS Family! It does feel like a family. We are newer and still getting to know our new extended family, but we do feel welcomed. The teachers & staff really care for our kids. The way they pour into them not just academically, but to impact them for God's Kingdom is such a blessing.
The Tison Family
Michael (1987 grad), Sarah (1988 grad), Kayla (2015 grad), Zachary (2017 grad), Seth (2020 grad), Micah (11th grade), Lydia (10th grade), Brand New Son-In-Law Zachary Bouren (2015 grad)
Mike began his OCS journey in 1983, I (Sarah) did in 1984, and our kids in 2008. Mike and my parents both wanted a strong Christian education and sacrificed greatly to afford for us to go there.
My mom, Freddy Kemler, worked as the secondary admin for 25 years (retired in 2008) and it was always Mike and my dream to send the kids to OCS someday since the school had such an impact on our lives. We too knew the sacrifice was big but were willing to give it and have never regretted the decision.
We love all the sporting activities the kids are involved in and go to all their games, Mike is the Varsity Softball coach and has coached Middle School baseball and basketball boys and girls. I am typically volunteering as the team mom for any of the sports the kids are playing and ran the Spiritwear booth for 8 years. I am now serving on the committee to start the boosters club. Some of the activities my children have participated in include: Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Bowling, Baseball, Softball, Orchestra, Band, Student Council, NHS, and LEAD.
What’s unique about OCS is the closeness you have with other families. They really are all family to us and have many VERY close relationships that started at OCS. The teachers really do love our kids. They want them to succeed and want to partner with the families to ensure they do succeed. They are easy to talk to and go the extra mile. Since we are a sports-oriented family, we love the fact that our kids can participate in any sport. In many large public schools, sports are very difficult to get involved in unless you have been playing it all your life and are a high-level player. The coaches pray with and for the kids and are more concerned with their character than their skill. Although we have top-notch coaches that really do know and love the game.
To new families, seek out someone who you can ask all those "silly questions". So many times we take for granted that those of us who have been around for a long time know things that new families do not. We would love to come alongside and help navigate with them.
To the teachers, in this uncertain time, know that we parents love and appreciate all you are doing and know it isn't easy how much you have had to change the way you are teaching. We are continually praying that you receive an extra measure of patience and endurance.
Photo credit: Liz Erban Photography
The Miller Family
We’re beginning our sixth year at OCS this Fall. What initially drew us to OCS is the Christian environment. Activities that our girls are involved in include: soccer, volleyball, softball, strings, Honor Society, LEAD, and Geo Challenge.
Programs and activities around campus that we’ve loved volunteering are class field trips /activities, sports volunteer opportunities, and the SCRIP gift card program.
What’s unique about OCS is that the teachers display the love of Christ to their students. As the world is becoming a darker place, OCS seeks to walk with the Lord.
The Franey Family
We began our OCS journey when Alaina was going into 3rd grade and Abby was in 1st. My (Lisa) dad was a public school teacher and I taught in the public schools for 8 years. I was grateful to share the love of Jesus in this ministry. However, as our children grew we became more and more concerned about these vital years. Before we visited OCS for the first time, we prayed for clear signs to guide our decision and God was faithful to answer! From the moment we stepped in the door, we felt His peace and presence. Many Spirit-led conversations and interactions with staff members made our decision clear. OCS was the place we wanted our children to be "trained up in His Word" so that when they leave this place they are fully prepared to step into the joys and challenges of adulthood!
Alaina is involved in varsity basketball and volleyball, National Junior Honor Society, and will begin serving as a member of the LEAD team this year. Abby participated in middle school volleyball, basketball, softball, and soccer. She is also part of the National Junior Honor Society, plays the violin in the orchestra, and will be joining the praise band this upcoming year as she enters high school.
Together, Brian and I served on the FOLK team for 3 years, planning events for families at OCS. Brian has truly enjoyed his time as the varsity girls' assistant coach and now as the head coach. He joyfully pours into these girls and their families, and reaps the benefits of growing spiritually every year! I enjoyed volunteering for field trips and helping in the classroom during my elementary years and now enjoy supporting my husband and these amazing girls. The biggest blessing has been being a part of the OCS prayer team since the first year we joined this OCS family! Nothing can compare to praying with other brothers and sisters in Christ and seeing God doing amazing things within His body of believers!
My advice to new families? Embrace this family as your own! You will never regret the time you've spent investing in your children's future! Jesus is at the center of OCS... and for that, we are so very thankful! The staff and administrators truly care about every child and work hard to help them become the best version of who God created them to be!
The LeRoy Family
Our children started at OCS 7 years ago, back in the Fall of 2013. We were looking for a faith-based program that also provided strong academics. Athletics were a large part of our decision- we wanted a place where our kids could play sports and have a large variety to choose from. Our kids have participated in football, basketball, baseball, soccer club, art club, and science club.
I love that our students can start in preschool together and travel all the way to graduation together. They really become like siblings who take care of and watch out for one another. This also allows the parents to bond and communicate with each other.
PTF and Lifebuilders are a huge part of my life here at OCS. I love to support our staff and show them how loved they are. Raising funds for the school to be able to provide even more programs and opportunities for students has been a blessing.
OCS has become our family. With all three kids there, being involved in volunteering, sports, and after-school activities, this school is a part of our everyday lives. Families take care of one another and love your kids as you love them. I know that if I need anything I can count on the staff or families for help. Our social life is really intertwined with OCS and we are so grateful for the friendships we have here. We can raise our kids and grow in our faith together.
Photo credit: Blonde Tulip Photography
The Lopes / Kubinski Family
We’ve been at OCS for 6 years for the kids (since 2014), and I (Jessie) am an OCS alum from the Class of 2000. Efraim plays basketball and was on the Elementary Robotics team. Ben is on the worship team. Hannah and Efraim are in the Spanish Immersion program.
God opens a way and easily leads you there. When we arrived back, it felt like we stumbled upon OCS but really it was God's kind hand guiding our path. He has many beautiful purposes in which he plants our feet.
One of my favorite things at OCS is praying with a few teachers Monday or Tuesday mornings every week before school on campus. What a foundation this laid to dedicate our weeks, and lift them up to the mighty God who would carry us and all our burdens throughout that week so faithfully. Covering the teachers and students (with the teachers) in prayer was always my favorite. I also love volunteering at the used uniform sale! It has always lightened my load and blessed me. I have always felt clothed and provided for through this sale, and God's hand has always been present in clothing us beautifully!
There are pathways around every corner to find Jesus! He is hidden in different aspects of the culture at OCS and I love the way we encounter him. I love the open spaces, teachers, mission trips, student prayer and Bible study, worship team, and endless other ways that Jesus meets the people of Oakland Christian, and they experience him in a new, personal, and intimate way.
I believe the best days of OCS are yet to come. There is a beautiful field there with ground to be worked on and foundation to be laid, so a more beautiful and diverse landscape can come up...a place where God's Spirit is comfortable to stay and abide, transforming the lives within into their God-given purposes and destinies so that no one leaves their gifts unused. We love OCS!
The Ahn Family
We began our OCS journey in August of 2012 when our daughter, Taylor, started Kindergarten. We sought out OCS for Christian education. We stayed because the instruction is excellent. We have embraced the community at OCS, it is home. At OCS we can unapologetically declare our love for Jesus. We come together to worship and pray as a body. Our kids are taught to serve others and give all the glory to God.
Taylor is entering 8th grade in the fall of 2020. She plays the violin in the Middle School Orchestra. She plays Lancer Softball and Soccer. She is a member of the NJHS (National Junior Honor Society). Our son, Cameron, is entering 6th grade this fall. He plays Lancer Football, Basketball, and Baseball. He is also a member of the elementary Robotics team.
There are so many ways to engage in the community at OCS. Chris has served on the school board for many years, but he really enjoys his time in the booth announcing the Lancer elementary football games. Kristi enjoys helping the class with service days and field trips, but her favorite experience is creating the Fear Factor room for the Middle School Lock-In.
One of our favorite events at OCS is the Elementary Fall Fun Night. It is a great time to build relationships with other OCS families in an outdoor setting. We relax and enjoy chili on a cool fall night before heading through the trails to watch the Lancers bring home a football victory.
Photo credit: Devin Parrish Photography