Tabbed northern Indiana's best-kept secret by one state education official, high SAT and ISTEP scores and other statistics compiled by Indiana's Department of Education are one measure of the academic quality at Bethany. But an even greater indicator are the words of praise from college professors noting the high level of preparedness for college they see in students from Bethany.

Further, an independent survey confirms that Bethany Christian Schools equips students with a fine academic education and encourages them to thoughtfully explore spiritual and lifestyle commitments. The study also shows that students from Bethany are more likely to recognize the importance of church participation than students in other schools.

Following is a sampling of what various groups of people are saying about Bethany:

Parents:

“Our family does not take for granted the gift of a Bethany experience.Thank you for your ministry to our family, congregation and community.” (parent satisfaction survey)

“My kids love it here. Thanks for all you do making new students feel accepted!” (parent satisfaction survey)

“Bethany has been a wondrous place for my son to thrive and grow! I truly appreciate the quality of teaching and attention to developmental issues by all his teachers and staff. I also appreciate school personnel who work behind the scenes to ensure a positive and successful experience for each student who attends Bethany.” (parent email)

Thanks VERY much for the concern and work you are putting into our daughter and her education at BCS. We just can't help her all by ourselves. She needs teachers and a school administration who really care, work with her, and work with us. In short she needs a school that goes the extra mile, and that is exactly what Bethany has been doing. (parent email)

“It is comforting to talk to teachers and realize how deeply they know and care for my children.” —John Roth, parent and Goshen College educator

“As a Christian parent, I’m concerned about who has the ability to influence my children. Bethany Christian Schools helps reinforce values that are being taught at home.” —Daniel Grimes, parent and Goshen city councilman

Students:

“I never expected to be involved in drama, but in ninth grade a teacher encouraged me to give it a try. Looking back it‘s remarkable how much I’ve learned. Extracurriculars at Bethany focus on more than just building performing skills; teachers pass on life skills. Through drama I have become more confident not only in performing, but in being in front of people.”

“I have fallen in love with Bethany. Everyone knows everyone. There is a close feeling. Teachers are concerned with my life. I feel an openness to talk with them if I have a need. The community is awesome.” —transfer student

“Bethany is doing a great job of keeping students safe while allowing us to learn and develop friendships.” (student satisfaction survey)

 “Bethany does a good job at promoting a family feel between students and faculty.” (student satisfaction survey)

“I like that you have small classes so that students can get more individual attention.” (student satisfaction survey)

Alumni:

“What you do now, does matter. I didn’t realize as a student that the skills I was learning I would be using now.” Sarah Thompson (class of 2002)

“Success in business requires creativity and problem-solving skills. Teachers at Bethany provided opportunities and encouragement for me to develop these skills—helping prepare me for my life work.” –Lance Miller (’89), controller/treasurer of Das Dutchman Essenhaus in Middlebury, Ind.

“My involvement with music and as editor of The Reflector laid the foundation for my career path. Not a day goes by when I’m not grateful for having such broad experiences to draw from.” —Anne Berry (’94), illustrator for Gather ’Round Sunday school curriculum.

Community:

“I applaud Bethany Christian Schools for being innovative and gracious to host an educational enrichment program for our children. Thank you for extending your outreach to those of us with children in the public school system.” —public school parent about Camp Invention

“We are enclosing our gift to Bethany in tribute to ALL of the students and personnel who had any part in that great musical production. We know that many were involved to make this a huge success. Please use the gift wherever needed.”