A Quality Alternative for Families in the Foothills

by Greg Leis
Drugs. Alcohol. Violence. Unhealthy peer relationships. Poor teacher-student relationships. Little to no parent involvement. A lack of moral and ethical principles. No God. These are typical problems in the public school system; problems which concern both believing and non-believing parents.

One solution for families in the Auburn/Grass Valley area is Crossroads Christian Schools (C.C.S.) located at Crossroads Church. Crossroads offers Pre-School, Elementary and Junior High programs featuring bible-based curriculum and experienced and caring teachers in a secure, nurturing environment.

“Other Christian schools are going to provide bible curriculum, but the difference is we have a staff that’s uniquely gifted in their ability to pour into kid’s lives,” says Duane Triplett, Crossroads principal. “We really focus on discipling the kids.”

Crossroads is renowned area-wide, not only for the experience of the teaching staff, but also for the permanency and stability of the staff. Almost all have been teaching at Crossroads for a number of years. “There’s just that sense of camaraderie… that family feel,” is Duane’s explanation for this continuity.

Currently, Crossroads Christian Schools is offering a $2500 first-year tuition rate – half off the normal tuition fee. “Our hope is that families who have been on the fence (will find) the discount to be enough of an incentive to come out,” Duane explains. He adds, “Our kids and families are under attack, and if (Crossroads) can be one of the supporting legs underneath the family to help them be successful and growing in the Lord, we want to be part of that.”

Current enrollment in the elementary/junior high schools stands at 110 students for the 2008-2009 school year. Capacity is approximately 150. Enrollment applications are accepted throughout the school year. Enrollment in the pre-school is maxed out at over 50. At present, there is a waiting list for pre-school enrollment.

Often the parents initially intend for their child(ren) to attend Crossroads for one year. But “then they (see) everything and love it,” according to Duane and decide to remain at Crossroads as long as possible.

One of the new staff members – junior high teacher Claire Thomson – grew up attending Crossroads Church (then Calvary Chapel Grass Valley), graduated with honors from Point Loma University, obtained her teaching credential and has now returned to her roots at Crossroads.

Another new staff member this year is Suzi Shipley, who will serve as a teacher’s aide. Suzi fits right into the mold of Crossroads staff having raised 3 boys and discipled many young girls. Suzi will also be coaching the inaugural Crossroads Cross Country team.

Sports programs are increasing at Crossroads. Basketball, volleyball and cross country teams are being fielded, with more sports planned for the future.
C.C.S. also has brand new office facilities. For the past 12 years, the school office was very small. Now, the corner classroom at the beginning of the second floor hall has been converted into a sparkling, spacious new reception area with counter space and windows looking out into the hall. A conference room now occupies the former office site. “We’re excited about what we’re doing. We’re excited about the program. And the office needs to reflect that.” said Duane.

Working in the new office will be the new school secretary Myra Makelim. Myra holds a Masters Degree in Business from Sacramento State University, but more importantly she has a friendly, open, outgoing demeanor which lends itself to discipling children. “It’s not just the staff in the classroom,” says Duane.

The remodeling, the new staff, the new excitement all reflect Duane’s desire to make Crossroads Christian Schools an integral part of life at Crossroads Church. “As they (the fellowship) begin to see some of the changes in public schools that they won’t be able to handle, they’ll begin to say ‘You know, we keep hearing about the school at church, the newsletter, the web page. Let’s go check it out.’”

Check out Crossroads Christian Schools at Crossroads Church for yourself.
Click here for Crossroads Christian School’s webpage