|
A Brief History of Mid Valley Christian School
The idea for Mid Valley Christian School was first birthed in 1974 in the minds
of a group of parents living in this area. These parents were concerned about
the future education of their children who were approaching school age. The
parents met and agreed that they wanted a quality education with Christian
beliefs taught to their youngsters. They wanted no state or government funds
so that they could maintain control of the type of curriculum developed for
the school. These parents desired a school where parental input would be
welcomed.
By-laws were written for the school, and a board of directors was elected.
It was decided that the minister of a local church would be appointed as a
non-voting member of the board. Every family that had a child enrolled at the
school had one vote to elect the board of directors. Directors were elected
to a two-year term, and elections were held annually at a board meeting. The
name, Mid Valley Elementary School was chosen for this new facility, and parents
agreed to work at whatever job was needed to get the school started for the
1975-76 school year.
The first class of Mid Valley Elementary School was a first-grade class, and
was held at the First Christian Church in Weslaco. The church allowed the school
to use the east-end of the fellowship hall, which had to undergo some changes
to accommodate the school. Many people donated money and time to make these
adjustments possible. A handbook was written, many parts of which are still
in effect today. Finally, Mrs. Evelyn Weaver, who was retiring from Weslaco
public schools, was hired to teach the class.
Each year MVES added an additional grade to the school. By 1979, Mid Valley
Elementary School became incorporated. At this time the school began using
the A-Beka curriculum, and had a kindergarten class at the Presbyterian Church,
first and second grades at the First Christian Church, and third through sixth
grade classes were held at the Methodist Church. In early 1980, a permanent
home was found for the school at 417 Westgate. Once again parents worked together
to prepare the building and grounds for school use, and paved the way for the
school consolidation on one campus.
In 1984, the growth of the school required expansion of the building. Several
more classes were added to meet the projected enrollment. A pre-kinder program
for 4 year-olds was added and after school care was offered. By April 1990,
the school needed to expand again. A larger room for assemblies, lunch, programs,
and activities was added. In 1995, a decision was made to change the name of
the school to Mid Valley Christian School to emphasize the main focus of the
school.
From that very first class, Mid Valley Elementary School has had a policy encouraging
parental participation. Parents volunteer time to supervise the children at
play, provide transportation for field trips, clean up when necessary, and
do other tasks to keep the school functioning. Our Parent Teacher Organization
works to raise funds to keep tuition down and provide extra benefits for the
children. Today, parental involvement continues to be an important facet of
our school’s success.
Another important facet through the years has been the involvement of local
pastors and lay people who have provided ministry to our students through weekly
chapels and music ministry. Community leaders have also been involved in the
school in various capacities. Weslaco Mayor Gene Braught, recently delighted
our students when he came to read to them. Students are encouraged to honor
and respect community workers such as firemen, police officers, teachers, and
other public servants. Good character and citizenship of students is stressed,
and students displaying these characteristics are honored weekly at our Friday
assembly.
The school that was started on faith in the fellowship hall of the First Christian
Church with 25 students has grown and flourished for 26 years. The parents,
board, and staff have continually asked for God’s direction and have
received His blessings for the school. Our desire is to continue growing, improving,
and providing the very best education possible for area children for years
to come, while maintaining a safe, nurturing Christian atmosphere.
|
|