It’s more than academics. More than programs. It’s about lives being shaped for Christ—both in the moment and over a lifetime.
This past month, we had the incredible joy of witnessing 11 students publicly profess their faith in Jesus through baptism at our all-school Easter chapel. These were not just symbolic moments—they were deeply personal declarations of transformed hearts. Students stood before their peers, teachers, and community to say:
Jesus is Lord of my life.
Moments like these remind us why Christian education matters now more than ever. In a culture filled with competing voices, our mission remains clear: to nurture and equip students to impact the world for Christ. And we are seeing that mission lived out right before our eyes.
At the same time, we celebrate another powerful expression of the BVCS Difference—
The faithful longevity of our staff.
This year, we honored team members serving 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and even 35 years. These are men and women who have quietly and consistently poured into generations of students—praying with them, teaching them, mentoring them, and pointing them to Jesus day after day.
From teachers who have shaped thousands of young lives, to staff who faithfully serve behind the scenes, their impact is immeasurable. Their legacy is not just years served—but lives changed.
The BVCS Difference is found in these moments:
- A student choosing Jesus
- A teacher staying faithful year after year
- A community united around Christ-centered purpose
Christian school matters—because eternity matters.
And at BVCS, we are grateful to be part of a story that is shaping both.
]]>Fresh pages. Fresh goals. Fresh questions about where we’re headed—and who we’re becoming along the way.
At Big Valley Christian School, January is also a time when we intentionally re-center on what matters most:
faith, formation, and belonging—all grounded in Christ. We make SURE we are on mission to nurture and equip our students to impact the world for Christ!
Faith That Shapes Daily Life
Our students don’t just learn about faith—they live it.
Through chapel, prayer, Scripture, and discipleship, January invites us back to the heart of why we exist: helping students walk closely with Christ in every season.
Formation That Prepares Students for Life
True education forms the whole child—spiritually, academically, socially, and emotionally.
In classrooms, on courts and fields, on stages, and through leadership opportunities, students are growing not just in knowledge, but in character, confidence, and calling.
Belonging That Feels Like Home
One of the most common things families tell us is, “This just feels right.”
January is a beautiful reminder that BVCS is a community where students are known, supported, and encouraged to thrive—right where they are.
New Year, New Beginnings on the Horizon
January is also our peak season for re-enrolling current families as we move into February when we open enrollment to new families. If you’re exploring Christian education or wondering whether BVCS might be the right fit for your child, we would love to meet you.
There’s no better way to experience our mission than to see it in action.
Schedule a tour by going to bvcslions.com/tours.
Rising 7th-12th Graders can attend Preview Day on January 29th (call 209-571-4800 to book).
Come see what makes BVCS different.
As we step into this new year together, we remain committed to partnering with families, forming students in Christ, and creating a place where faith and learning go hand in hand—every day.
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There is excitement, reflection, celebration—and a holy pause as we remember the true reason for the season: the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior.
At Big Valley Christian School, December is a time when faith is not just taught—it is felt.
A Season of Hope
The Advent season reminds us that God entered the world with purpose and promise. In classrooms, chapels, performances, and conversations, students are reminded that Christ is our hope—yesterday, today, and forever.
This hope anchors our learning and shapes our community.
Faith in Action
December brings opportunities for students to live out their faith through service, generosity, creativity, and worship. Whether through music, outreach, or simple acts of kindness, our students are learning that faith is meant to be shared.
These moments matter. They form hearts as much as minds.
Looking Ahead with Purpose
As the semester comes to a close and families prepare for Christmas break, we reflect on all that God has done—and we look ahead with expectation.
We enter the new year grounded in Christ, committed to formation, and confident in the community God has built here at BVCS.
May this season be filled with peace, joy, and the reminder that the Light of the world has come.
From our BVCS family to yours—Merry Christmas.
]]>In the middle of busy schedules, full classrooms, and packed calendars, this season reminds us to pause and reflect—to recognize God’s faithfulness and give thanks for the work He is doing in and through our community.
At Big Valley Christian School, gratitude isn’t just a feeling—it’s a practice.
Gratitude for Growth
We are thankful for students who are growing academically, spiritually, and relationally. Growth doesn’t always show up in test scores or report cards alone—it’s seen in perseverance, kindness, curiosity, and confidence.
Each day, our students are learning not just what to think, but how to live as followers of Christ.
Gratitude for Community
BVCS is more than a school—it’s a partnership.
We are grateful for families who invest deeply in their children’s education, for staff who serve faithfully, and for a community that believes in raising students with purpose and character.
This season reminds us that education works best when school and home walk together.
Gratitude for Mission
As a Christian school, our mission remains clear:
to provide a Christ-centered education that forms students for life.
November is a time to celebrate the moments—big and small—that reflect that mission in action:
- students praying for one another
- teachers going the extra mile
- families and students stepping in to serve and support
As we head toward the close of the calendar year, we do so with grateful hearts—thankful for where we’ve been, confident in where God is leading, and committed to continuing this work together.
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It Starts with Worship
“What a tremendous Grandparents Day! We were so blessed by the powerful songs sung — you could feel the presence of the Holy Spirit! To witness the joy on every child’s face in every grade was such a blessing!” — Elementary Grandparent
Grandparents Day was more than a performance — it was worship in motion. Through every lyric and lifted hand, our students became worship leaders, reminding all of us that praise is both an expression and an act of leadership. Each song pointed hearts toward Jesus and reflected the joy of children who know and love Him deeply.
Spiritual Leadership Beyond the Classroom
Our athletic field and gym is a mission fields too. As one referee recently shared that the volleyball team looks like a team. They’re well-behaved, respectful, and clearly led well.
Even those outside our community are noticing God’s favor upon BVCS — a culture where teamwork, discipline, and kindness reveal something greater. On the court and in the stands, our students model humility, unity, and joy that speak louder than any scoreboard.
Faith in Learning
In preschool classrooms, even playtime becomes a moment of discipleship. One teacher captured a beautiful scene: children rocking baby dolls while singing their chapel song about baby Moses.
At BVCS, faith isn’t a subject we add on — it’s the framework through which learning happens. Every lesson is an opportunity to teach both hearts and minds, reminding students that God’s truth touches every area of life.
Discipleship in Action
This fall, staff members have stepped up to fill every gap, cover classes, and encourage one another — serving with grace and joy. It’s a picture of teamwork rooted in faith and love.
And it’s not just adults modeling discipleship. One of our senior boys has been meeting with a freshman during lunch to offer mentorship and prayer — quietly demonstrating what it means to lead through service and care.
At BVCS, discipleship happens in hallways, lunchrooms, and moments between classes — wherever hearts are willing to listen and students are willing to be discipled and disciplers.
Community Rooted in Faith
From families rallying in prayer for those facing cancer to the joy shared at Homecoming and Grandparents Day, BVCS continues to embody a spirit of togetherness that reflects the body of Christ. New staff often describe the community as “unlike anywhere else”…where prayer, encouragement, and genuine care are woven into the rhythm of each day.
Leadership here isn’t about position, it’s about posture. It’s a community leaning in, praying together, and standing shoulder-to-shoulder through joy and hardship.
A Living Testimony
From the youngest voices in chapel to the oldest teammates on the field, BVCS students are learning what it means to lead from within. Their faith is growing, their influence is deepening, and their example reminds us that the most powerful kind of leadership is rooted in Christ and revealed in everyday faithfulness. The true measure of Christian education isn’t what happens in the classroom, it’s what carries into the world.
Experience BVCS for Yourself
Come see what it means to live and lead from within. Schedule a campus tour at bvcslions.com/tours.
]]>They are not alone. Across the country, BVCS alumni are thriving in diverse fields — from nursing and counseling to education, ministry, business, and missions. Some are raising families, others are pursuing advanced degrees, and many are leading in churches and communities. What unites them is more than school colors or Friday night lights. It’s the BVCS Difference: a distinctively Christian education that equips students to live faithfully in a world that often drifts away from truth.
September Foundations
September reminded us why parents choose BVCS and why alumni keep pointing back with gratitude:
- Strong Partnerships – Back-to-School Nights and Student Success Team meetings built momentum by aligning parents and teachers in support of student growth.
- Faith at the Center – See You at the Pole drew record attendance, a bold reminder that our hope is rooted in Christ.
- Academic Excellence – From elementary MAP scores well above national norms to junior high momentum and high schoolers outperforming state and national SAT/PSAT averages, BVCS students are thriving academically and spiritually.
- Lions for Life – Alumni returned to share stories, update us on their current pursuits, and inspire today’s students with living proof of where a BVCS education leads.
Building Toward Homecoming
All of these moments are building toward one of our most visible traditions: Homecoming. It’s more than blue and gold spirit — it’s a celebration of faith, belonging, and legacy. When alumni return to campus, when families gather in the stands, and when students rally together, we see the fruit of what we’ve been building: a place where students are known, families are connected, alumni are welcomed home, and Christ is at the center.
Why We Chose BVCS
Parents today face a difficult culture, one that often feels unmoored and unstable. But BVCS families — past and present — choose differently. They choose a place where students are nurtured in truth, encouraged in faith, and equipped to impact the world for Christ.
The stories of our alumni remind us: Building something great doesn’t stop at graduation. It lives on in the families they raise, the careers they pursue, and the communities they serve.
Ready to Learn More?
Sign up for a tour by going to bvcslions.com/tours.
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From alumni who have returned home to teach, to church members who have felt God’s call through prayer, to families who joined our community first as parents and then as staff, each story reflects the heart of our mission: to nurture and equip students to impact the world for Christ.
Called to Teach, Called to Serve
For many of our new teachers, the Christ-centered mission of BVCS was the defining factor in their decision. One high school Bible teacher explained, “I would hope that my approach to the Bible is nurturing and that students leave prepared to defend the faith to those they will come into contact with wherever that may be.” Another shared, “My goal as a teacher is to obviously grow students academically, but my main focus is their spiritual growth. By preparing them academically and spiritually, they will be ready and equipped to spread the Gospel.”
It is clear that in our classrooms, academics and discipleship go hand in hand.
From Alumni to Mentors
Several of our new staff members know the BVCS Difference firsthand—they experienced it as students. One new English teacher reflected, “I have wanted to teach at BVCS since I first attended here in 2013. God heard that desire and has blessed me immensely with this position as my first teaching job. He is so faithful!”
Another staff member, also an alum, added, “As an alumni, I enjoy being back! BVCS has an incredible staff culture and support system. No other workplace is like it.”
Their stories remind us that the impact of BVCS does not end at graduation—it multiplies when alumni return to invest in the next generation.
Families Turned Faculty
For others, the path to BVCS began with their children. One new elementary teacher shared that her journey started when her son joined the Sabres athletic program. That connection led her family to move their children to BVCS, and eventually, for her to leave a public school teaching role:
“We made sacrifices because we knew having our children learn and grow at BVCS was essential to their spiritual health. I prayed for two years, and through many steps of faith, God opened the door for me to be here. To teach at Big Valley is truly a spiritual investment—not only for your life, but for those God blesses you to impact.”
Her testimony beautifully captures the heart of BVCS as a ministry, not just a school.
A Christ-Centered Community Like No Other
The theme of community resounds through every new staff member’s words. “The Christ-centered community that provides support, growth, and encourages excellence is truly life-changing,” said one teacher. Another described BVCS as “one of the loveliest places the Lord has placed me…a place where faith and learning go hand in hand.”
Even those joining through athletics see BVCS as more than a workplace: “It’s a place where you can invest in students’ lives, grow in your faith, and be part of a community that’s passionate about Jesus and striving toward excellence.”
Firm in the Faith, Fierce in the Calling
As we embrace this year’s theme, Firm in the Faith, Fierce in the Calling, our new staff are already modeling what it looks like to live with boldness, faith, and discipleship at the center.
We are grateful for the unique gifts and journeys that brought them here. Their presence strengthens our mission and continues to build a Christ-centered community where students are not only educated, but equipped for life and eternity.
Join Us in Welcoming Them
We encourage families, alumni, and friends to take a moment to introduce yourself to our new teachers and staff at our upcoming Homecoming Football Game on Friday, October 3, 2025 starting at 5 PM (JV) and 7 PM (Varsity). Their stories are a testimony to God’s faithfulness—and together, we can celebrate the impact they will make in the lives of BVCS students this year and beyond.
Every parent wrestles with this question: Why would I pay tuition when my child can go to public school for free?
At Big Valley Christian School, we understand the weight of that decision. Education is one of the most important investments you’ll ever make for your child—and we believe the return on a Christ-centered education is eternal.
Beyond Academics: Nurturing and Equipping the Whole Child
Public schools offer academics, but at BVCS, we go further. Our mission is to nurture the mind, heart, and character of every student. That means:
- Biblical truth integrated into every subject—so math, science, history, and literature all point back to God’s design.
- Christ-centered mentorship—teachers model discipleship, not just deliver content.
- Character and calling—students aren’t only prepared for college and careers, but equipped to lead lives of purpose and service.
This integration of faith and learning is what we call the BVCS Difference—an education that doesn’t just inform, but transforms.
A Safe, Supportive, Caring Community
When you choose BVCS, you join a community of families, staff, and alumni committed to the same mission: raising the next generation to impact the world for Christ.
That means:
- Your child is known by name and nurtured by teachers who pray for them.
- Your family becomes part of a caring community of believers who share your values.
- Your student builds lifelong friendships rooted in faith, not just proximity.
In a world where so much is uncertain, this kind of environment is a priceless gift.
Eternal Impact: Why It’s Worth It
Yes, public school may be “free.” But consider what’s at stake:
- What shapes your child’s worldview for over 1,000 hours each year?
- Who influences their character and choices?
- Where do they learn to stand firm in their faith?
At BVCS, every classroom, chapel, field, and stage becomes a place where your child is encouraged to grow in wisdom, deepen their faith, and discover their God-given calling.
That’s why our 2025–26 theme is from Philippians 2:3-13 as we learn how we can live a life that is holy. We believe your child’s education should do more than prepare them for a job—it should prepare them to live boldly for Christ in a complex world.
Parents See the Difference
Here’s how one BVCS parent put it:
“ Our son was super apprehensive at the beginning of the year coming from a different school, but by the end of the first trimester, he was thriving! So thankful for a school that challenges, yet supports, the students as they learn and grow! Our first year with BVCS was great! ”
Ultimately, It’s About: What — and Who — Do You Want to Shape Your Child’s Future?
When you invest in Christian education, you’re not just buying a service—you’re investing in your child’s future, their faith, and their foundation for life.
- Public school is free—but it costs something when faith is left at the door.
- BVCS requires tuition—but it offers a return that lasts for eternity.
Discover BVCS for Yourself
We invite you to come see the BVCS Difference for yourself. Book a tour today and experience firsthand why families say a Christ-centered education is worth every investment.
People Also Ask…
1. How does BVCS compare academically to public schools?
BVCS offers rigorous academics, small class sizes, AP & honors courses, and a 98% college acceptance rate. But our academics are not just about performance—they are rooted in God’s design for truth, wisdom, and excellence. Students graduate prepared to thrive in higher education and lead with faith and integrity.
2. Will my child still have access to sports, arts, and extracurriculars?
Yes! BVCS offers a full range of athletics, fine arts, music, and leadership opportunities. From Friday night lights to theatre productions, our students explore their God-given talents while learning teamwork, discipline, and character.
3. Is BVCS a safe and supportive environment?
Absolutely. With small class sizes and a community of like-minded families, every child is known by name and cared for by teachers who see their work as ministry. Prayer, mentorship, and discipleship are woven into daily life, creating a safe, nurturing environment. BVCS also has an armed security guard on campus during the school day.
4. What about tuition assistance?
We are committed to making Christian education accessible. BVCS offers need-based tuition assistance for eligible families. Our admissions team will guide you through the application process and help you explore options.
5. How can I see if BVCS is right for my family?
The best way is to experience it firsthand. We invite you to schedule a campus tour, meet our teachers, see classrooms in action, and discover the BVCS Difference for yourself.
Have more questions? Our Admissions Team would love to connect with you. Contact us today or schedule your personal tour at bvcslions.com/tours.
]]>For half a century, the halls of Big Valley Christian School have echoed with the laughter of students, the wisdom of dedicated educators, and the unwavering presence of Christ. This year, we joyfully celebrate 50 Years of Christ-centered education, marking a remarkable journey of Christ-centered education that has shaped generations.
For five decades, BVCS has stood as a Legacy of Excellence, committed to providing both rigorous academics and a deeply rooted Christian worldview. This incredible milestone is also a community milestone, a testament to the enduring partnership between BVCS and Big Valley Grace Community Church. As we reflect on this rich history, we are also looking forward, eager to build upon this strong foundation to impact countless future generations.
At the heart of our mission lies the commitment to make this exceptional education accessible to as many families as possible. This is where our Tuition Assistance Fund plays a vital role.
Tuition Assistance: A Vital Need
Even as we celebrate our 50th anniversary, the need for tuition assistance remains as critical as ever. 50 Years, a continued need underscores the reality that for many families, a Christ-centered education would be out of reach without this vital support. Our Tuition Assistance Fund opens doors, providing opportunities for deserving students to access an education that nurtures their minds and souls.
By contributing to this fund, you are directly investing in the Future, empowering the next generation of Christian leaders, thinkers, and servants. We are currently meeting current challenges, recognizing the increased financial hardships that many families face in today’s world. Each year, thanks to the generosity of our community, 100+ students are directly impacted with a partial tuition scholarship, allowing them to thrive in our nurturing environment.
A Call to Generosity
As we commemorate this special anniversary, we invite you to join us in a meaningful way. Consider making an Anniversary Gift to our Tuition Assistance Fund as a powerful way to celebrate 50 years of impact. By doing so, you become a true partner in ministry, directly contributing to the spiritual and academic growth of our students and helping us nurture and equip future students through a Christ-centered education.
Your gift has a tangible impact, directly shaping the lives and futures of our students. We are setting aside the weekends of May 3rd & 4th, where Big Valley Grace Community Church will be receiving an offering for the BVCS Tuition Assistance Fund. We invite you to participate as well!
Give Online or In Person
There are several convenient ways to contribute:
- GIVE online securely at bvcs.org/impact
- GIVE BY texting “$BVCS” to 1-209-252-3583
- MAIL your gift to the school at 4040-D Tully Rd, Modesto, CA 95356
- Or, contact our Assistant Superintendent, Michelle Mott, at michellem@bvg.org to learn more about how you can partner with us.
As we reflect on honoring the past, let us also invest in the future. We encourage you to pray about giving a generous gift during our special offering weekend. Help us fulfill our mission to nurture and equip students to impact the world for Christ. Your support will help BVCS remain the best place for a Christ-centered education for generations to come.
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A few years ago, the BVCS staff received a powerful reminder from one of our very own Big Valley Christian School Board members: always remember to put God and His Kingdom first. This simple yet profound message resonated deeply, and we wanted to share an excerpt of that inspiring email with you today.
The board member recounted the joy of spending extra time with four of their grandchildren who attend BVCS. These moments offered a beautiful glimpse into their lives and the impact of their learning environment. From a fourth grader reciting Romans 12:12, showcasing their engagement with scripture, to a high school senior reflecting on the preciousness of her remaining time at BVCS and the growth in her relationship with Jesus, these anecdotes painted a vibrant picture. These stories, echoed by many families within our community, highlight the transformative power of the work being done here at BVCS.
As the school year draws to a close, let us be encouraged and strengthened, knowing that your dedication is making a real difference in the lives of our students and that you are held in prayer daily.
The words of Bob Talbert ring true: “Teaching kids to count is fine, but teaching them what counts is best.” While we may not know Mr. Talbert’s personal beliefs, the sentiment is undeniably powerful.
Our School Board explored this very concept through the book Kingdom Education. This quote sets the stage for a truly moving story shared by the author, Glen Schultz. He recounts a conversation between a mother and her child’s first-grade teacher, Mrs. Clausen. The mother received a distressed call because her daughter, Keaton, had performed poorly on a test.
The mother’s response was both unexpected and profoundly insightful: “[Mrs. Clausen], did you teach my child to love the Word of God? Yes. Did you teach her to praise and worship Jesus? Absolutely, you did. Did you love my little girl with the love of the Lord? Always. Then both you and Keaton have had a successful year. I’m not worried about her test scores.” She went on to say, “I knew that God would make sure that Keaton had everything she needed to fulfill God’s perfect plan for her life … I am so glad that I didn’t worry about Keaton’s test scores because test scores don’t count in heaven. I’m so glad I didn’t sweat the small stuff. You might argue that with me, but test scores are small stuff in comparison to knowing Christ.”
While this could be seen as a supportive parent’s testimony, the rest of the story, as the renowned commentator Paul Harvey would say, adds an unimaginable depth. Just weeks after this conversation, little Keaton tragically passed away in an accident.
In her grief, Keaton’s mother shared these powerful words: “I am so grateful that in preparation for Keaton’s death the Lord placed my children in a school where for many years they have been saturated with the Word of God and His powerful truths. Though academics are important, it is the Word of God that has seen us through our darkest hours.”
Oh, how completely accurate Mr. Talbert’s words were!
To our incredible educators and community, keep doing what you do best. Set a high standard for academics, yes, but let us all always remember to put God and His Kingdom first. For it is in Him and His eternal truths that we find the things that truly count.
Source: Schultz, Glen. Kingdom Education: God’s Plan for Educating Future Generations. LifeWay Press, 2002.
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