About Christian Life Schools
Overview
Christian Life Schools was founded in 1973 as a ministry of Rockford First Assembly. The school campus is located on the east side of Rockford and serves students representing more than 140 churches. Currently, Christian Life serves approximately 750 students PreK-3 through 12th Grade.
When we introduce Christian Life Schools to someone new, we usually discuss everything from academics to athletics, classrooms to curriculum. But above all, we strive to communicate the unique value of the Christian education we offer. We are committed to shaping the lives of our students by inspiring them to express the qualities which matter most — honesty in word and deed, kindness toward others, respect for authority, and trust in God. What you'll discover here is a disciplined, yet loving, environment in which every child receives personal attention. We see each student as a unique person created by God to live the fullest and most significant life possible.
Presently, there are more than 50 classrooms and two libraries in the combined facilities of Christian Life Schools. We have six technology labs, as well as terminals within classrooms, giving us multiple technology labs accessible on campus daily, to serve the needs of both staff and students. There are two gymnasiums, the largest being a double gymnasium in the high school wing which features a four-sided scoreboard, an exceptional sound system, and a lighting system which provides an exciting display for all home games. We also have an 800-seat amphitheater which is handicapped accessible. There is ample parking and separate entrances for Elementary School and Middle School/High School.
Christian Life Schools is accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), North Central Accreditation (NCA) and Commission on International and Transregional Accreditation (CITA), and is recognized by the State Board of Education.
Philosophy
Christian Life Schools is committed to providing a quality education while also cultivating an atmosphere where Christian principles are taught, modeled, and encouraged. It is an environment that provides a sense of security, constancy, and spiritual relevance. The purpose of Christian school education is the instruction of children within a God-centered view of the world. Underlying this goal is the conviction that God reveals all truth; that He is the source, sustenance, and goal of all creation; and that real education rests upon the revelation of His truth in Holy Scripture. As the reality and power of God permeates all true learning, so this perspective guides all aspects of this school, its staff, and its setting.
Our commitment to our students is the philosophy that a truly Christian education reflects excellence in all areas of life — spiritually, academically, physically, emotionally, and socially. It is our mission to educate students to become balanced individuals who are growing in wisdom and knowledge through a biblical world view.
Christian Faculty and Staff
Our staff members model Christ-like principles, morality, and authentic encouragement on a daily basis. Their own personal relationship with God permeates the classroom and interaction with students.
Bible Classes
Through daily Bible classes conducted at all grade levels, students learn to apply God's principles to the world in which they live.
Core Curriculum
The purpose of Christian school education is the instruction of children within a God-centered view of the world, thus the truth of God's Word and its principles are taught in an integrated fashion with all subjects.
Spiritual Life
Christian Life Schools is committed to providing a quality education while also cultivating an atmosphere where Christian principles are taught, modeled, and encouraged. The spiritual life component is an exciting and positive part of the Christian Life experience. In a society where even the strongest and most secure child or teenager can experience the pressures of negative influences, Christian Life provides a place of security, constancy, and spiritual relevance.
Our student body comes from over 140 different churches and 36 different denominations. The principles taught and modeled at CLS are built upon the inerrancy of Scripture, so that students can develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Elementary Pastor: Pastor Betsy Frost
Middle & High School Pastor: Pastor Jeff Frost
Elementary Chapel Worship: Mrs. Karli Smith
MS/HS Chapel Worship: Trent Emenecker
Student Life
A student's school career is more than just academic. Extra-curricular activities provide an important avenue for a student's development. By participating in school beyond the classes and the assignments, students develop important social, emotional, and physical skills that will serve them for a lifetime. For many students, the extra-curricular experience provides a foundation of rich memories and the development of life-time friendships.
School-Wide Activities / Events
- Educational experiences abroad including but not limited to: England, Ireland and Spain
- Assemblies with speakers such as Congressman Don Manzullo
- Mission Trips within the U.S. as well as International
- Field trips
- Spiritual Emphasis Week
- Snow Sculpting Competition
- Sadie Hawkins
- Retreats
- Spirit Week & Homecoming
- Junior / Senior Banquet
- Musicals
- Art Contests
- Student Government
- Fun Fair
- Grandparent's Day
- Pet Day