"I've only been at MCS for about a year, but the school has realy influenced my Christian walk. In my Bible classes, I have learned that my Christian beliefs can be backed up through intelligent proof. Coupling faith with reason has strengthened my relationship with God and that has really prepared me for life after MCS."
-Jessica, Class of 2009
"This school means the world to me. Even as a new student, I have learned so much about myself and my friends. The teachers here are great. I love the wonderful Christian environment I am surrounded by. The kids here are so friendly. The majority of them have really accepted me and brought me into their "family". I love this school!!"
-Kimmy, 10th grade
"After visiting 6 pre-schools and contacting another 3 in the Knox/Blount county area, I found MCS. The first time I visited and spoke with the staff I knew I had been led to the place for our son. I dropped our firstborn off the first day of pre-school and after lingering to say our parting motto and hugging him, I quietly returned to my car and completely broke down into tears of sadness. After the end of the first 2 day week, I cried tears of gratitude because the Lord had brought us to MCS and given our son smiles and laughter from his new found friends and experiences. My heart was at peace and has been ever since regarding our school decision. Our family looks forward to many years of all our children, and we as parents, being a part of the MCS family. We are by no means lucky, yet by all means blessed."
-Ashley Nickloes, MCS parent
"To me, MCS means a good education but also having fun at the same time!"
-Jamie, 7th grade
"Two years ago we enrolled our 7th grade son into Maryville Christian School. After seven years in a large public school system, we were looking for something different. Our decision came after much thought about what we were looking for in a Christian-based school. We wanted an environment where our son felt he could discuss and learn about God in an open manner and not be made to feel uncomfortable for discussing his religion. We wanted an enriching curriculum that would challenge him, engage him and prepare him for his future. We wanted a small environment where he could learn without the many disruptions often encountered in a large classroom. We have been pleased that all of these expectations have been met, and so much more! The staff and teachers at MCS have far exceeded our expectations and we can honestly say that this school has been an answer to our prayers. The teachers are clearly there for all the right reasons...they care about the students. There is no "standard template" applied to every child in their classrooms. Instead, they know their students and go the extra mile to ensure that the curriculum is interesting, understandable, and Christian-based. Although there is a high level of expectations for the students, the teachers are compassionate and aware of the challenges that students face. The environment at the school is calm and inviting...not something necessarily expected in a school with so many grade levels. In addition to a terrific staff, the parents at MCS are a part of what makes this school what it is. The PTO is very active and we have never been made to feel more welcome. We would highly recommend Maryville Christian School and are excited to be a part of this wonderful establishment!"
-Chris & Stephanie Van Arsdale, MCS parents
"I have chosen to stay at MCS because my class is awesome and I like going to a school where we can learn about God. My class is so much fun and we are extremely close. Honestly, I don't look forward to graduating as much as some because I will miss everyone I have become friends with. I wouldn't want to go anywhere else than to MCS."
-Ashley, Class of 2009
"Maryville Christian School has been a blessing to our family. We have been able to see our children grow physically, academically, and most importantly, spiritually. We are here because of the genuine interest that the staff has invested in our sons that raised their own interest and enjoyment in academics and athletics. This has helped to realize more of their potential as growing young men. The greatest benefit has been their prayer for their classmates, their awareness of prayer for their leaders, and not being ashamed to speak about Christ."
-Britt and Madeline Bishop, MCS parents
"After moving here a few years ago, I seemed to feel a new freedom to be more outgoing than I ever had before. I found it amazingly easy to make new friends, and felt that I fit in within my first year. Whether it be God's presense in this school, or the love I have for all the awesome friends I've made here, all I know is to not go to this school would be eerily similar to having to live without a large piece of myself."
-Kate, senior
"I teach at MCS for several reasons. First, it is God's will for me to be here. His purpose has not always been clear to me. He has slowly peeled away layers and revealed them. One purpose is clear - to show me that I can be confident in Him that He has given me the gift of teaching and He wants me to be comfortable in His confidence. Second, I believe I am here because He wants me surrounded professionally, personally and most of all spiritually so that I can be used for His divine plan, both in my class and especially at home. MCS has offered an alternative needed in my life that God saw clearly to encourage me as a Christian mother and wife."
Heather Newberry, MCS teacher and parent
"Maryville Christian is more than just a school to us. It is an extended family. Our children receive an excellent education rooted in biblical principals. For our family, there is no alternative. The experiences our children have had here are irreplaceable.
-Chrissie Williamson, MCS parent
"When asked why I've remained at MCS for 10 years, I'd have to respond in several different ways. First of all, the academics program has strengthened and sharpened my mind. While challenging, I feel like I am being prepared for college and the challenges that come with it as well. Secondly, the teachers here at MCS have cared enough about me and my learning to help me become the person God intends me to be. Last and most important of all, remaining at MCS for the past 10 years has helped in my Christian walk. By being surrounded with people who constantly seek after God, I feel as if my walk has been built up. I know that by finishing my last few years of high school, I will not regret joining this school in the first place."
-Amerrica, senior
"The reason for my being a faculty member at Maryville Christian School, beyond obviously for the glory of God, is first for my own children's education. While my wife, Julie and I know that many fine believers send their children to public schools - which often have wonderful Christian teachers - we are committed to an openly Christian philosphy of education. The center-piece of that philosophy is that the Triune God created all there is and that He, in Christ is reconciling the corrupted universe to Himself and that all other interpretations of meaning are simply wrong."
-Phil Reynolds, MCS teacher and parent
"At MCS, you don't have to hide the fact that God is a part of the universe. I felt a light here that I didn't feel at my old school."
- Becca, Class of 2008
"My wife and I have truly been impressed with everything our child has learned this past year at Maryville Christian's preschool. Even in preschool they hold true to their mission of cultivating a distinctive Christian character by helping to reinforce the values we are teaching at home. The preschool staff is truly amazing. They keep us informed on our child's progress and they are always available if we have concerns or questions. We look forward to a continued partnership in training our child up in the Christian way and being part of the Maryville Christian School Family."
-Harold and Misty Booker, MCS parents
"The difference of this school has played a large role in determining whether or not to stay. This school strengthens your relationship with Christ while advancing in your academic education."
-Michael, senior
"It's really great to be in such a safe environment. MCS is what a school should be."
-Briana, 10th grade
"Even though I don't always love school and become frustrated, I would never leave MCS. Coming from a public school, I was overwhelmed by the academic challenges and the fact that the school was so small. Also, I was overwhelmed by something else...the care and compassion of my teachers and fellow students. I have come to love all those around me (despite frustrations) and for the most part I feel people accept me in that way. Through relationships, Bible classes, retreats, and chapels, I have been brought closer to God. My relationship with Christ has truly been strengthened since I started school here. I owe that to the people in this school. I could never have imagined (I don't want to!) not coming to MCS for my high school years. If I was given the choice to go back to public school, looking back at my experience now, I would gladly stay at MCS because I know God meant for me to be here."
-Jessica, Class of 2009
"I have stayed at Maryville Christian School, because of the special people who have encouraged me in my walk with God."
-Jordan, 10th grade
"I came to MCS for my freshmen year of school feeling nervous about how I would be accepted at a new school. I was amazed though. Outside of church, I have never been given such a warm welcome before. The student body is wonderful. The faculty is amazing, and the Christian-based environment is unparalled. To be able to go to a school with great people, get a wonderful education, and discuss and learn about Christ on all days of the school week makes me proud to say that I graduated from MCS. I've never been happier."
- C.J., Class of 2008
"In the middle of our child's 7th grade year God spoke to my daughter's heart about changing from public school to MCS. Even with our reluctance (financial scare, changes, etc.) within 2 weeks she was enrolled and a member of the basketball team! When God does it "He" moves, and provides the way. Since that time as her parent and a member of the MCS family, I have witnessed God's hand in so many ways. Education is very important to me, but my child is more important. MCS reminded me of that. Because of their constant love, caring watch, teaching ministry, and the working together in Christ we have not only been blessed, but we have been changed. Thank you MCS for being the channel that God uses to mold into Christ-likeness not only our children but their family as well."
-Kelly Hall, MCS parent
"It is so special to attend a school where you get to know everyone and everyone knows you. The spirit of caring is obvious."
-Beth, Class of 2007
"It's much smaller here, so it is easy to make friends. At my old school, they taught classes trying to please everyone's religious beliefs. Here, they teach from a clear Christian perspective."
-Josh, Class of 2008
"At my old school, the kids said they were Christians, but outside of school, they lived a totally different life. At this school, the kids live what they say, they don't change."
-Mary, Class of 2009
"I have seen a lot over the last 13 years and through all of this, there is no where else I would have rather been. I have seen friends leave MCS and either get caught up in the wrong crowds or just hate their new school. By being a student at MCS, I am taught Christian values and many life lessons I would have never learned anywhere else. I truly believe in our motto - "Cultivating a distinctive generation."
-Ethan, Class of 2008
"It was an honor and a privilege to have attended MCS. I loved it here because we as students faced almost no peer pressure and we could worship God freely and also learn about God freely. This is truly a great environment to learn in."
-Aaron, Class of 2005
"The relaxing atmosphere is one of the most noticeable strengths of MCS. There's not as much pressure to be what society tells you to be. I can just be who God has created me to be. The teachers are welcoming and kind. The students are very welcoming and kind as well. I also love the fact that there's not as much division between grades. A senior can be friends with a sophomore and a junior can be friends with an 8th grader and they're not looked down upon. All in all the school has a wonderful, kind, Christian environment. It is amazing to see God work everyday in the students, faculty, and just the school in general."
-Stephanie, Class of 2009
"I came to Maryville Christian School 3 years ago to start high school. I expected some resistance, being new in such a small school. However, when I came I was accepted and was allowed to be myself. I've spent many long days here, but it still doesn't feel like school. When I wake up, I don't dread coming to school. The teachers are very involved in your academic life, but also in your home and spiritual life. They don't just herd you in and out, they treat you like their own children and you know it. Coming to Maryville Christian School has helped me to better myself in my spiritual walk with Christ."
-Nick, Class of 2007
"I came to MCS in my junior year after having considered public school. When I came to visit for the first time, everyone was so welcoming and made me feel like I belonged. I knew after my first day that I had found my new school."
-Kylah, Class of 2008
"I love our school. I am so proud our children are a part of it. I can't believe what God has given us here. We didn't come here for all the "extras" or did we expect them. We could have had that at the Maryville City system. We came under the leadership of God with a great desire for our children to go to a Christian school. What God adds to that is icing on the cake and there's alot of icing around here. In 8 years I have never been disappointed in this school or it's great staff, but I have sat here many, many times with tears in my eyes, so thankful that we are a part of it. It's worth every sacrifice! You can call anything Christian but that doesn't make it Christian, Maryville Christian truly is...
Oh Taste and see that the Lord is good!"
-Gail Burns, MCS parent
"Maryville Christian is an exciting, Christ-centered school which allows students like myself to excel in academics, sports and most importantly, excel in my Christian walk with the Lord."
-Jason, Class of 2007
"Maryville Christian School was an answer to prayer. We had just moved here and had put our son in a school in Knoxville but didn't feel the Lord's peace. When I walked into Maryville Christian School, I immediately felt God's comfort, as if He was telling me where Ben should be. The school has been a true blessing for us. Thank you, Lord, for this school!"
-Ellen Dodd, MCS parent