Why do we Exist?

OACS Organizational Philosophy:

The 1984 Bylaws state that the OACS shall:

  • Promote the extension and improvement of Christian education.
  • Assist and advise various member societies and associations of Christian education on all matters concerning them.
    • The older 1974 Bylaws also included specific instructions:
  • To work hard for high standards in education in our member schools.
  • To encourage and promote high standards of teacher training.
  • To represent the member schools in their relation to government and other institutions. The following organizational commitments captures the official philosophy and purpose in current language:

    • The Vision:

    Building a flourishing community of schools responding to God’s call to integrate faith and learning—and achieving excellence in education through effective Christian schools accessible to parents in each community in Ontario.

    The Confession:

    As Christians, we confess that the domain of education belongs to God, as part of His World. It is our desire to acknowledge our dependence on His grace and mercy by:

  • Promoting schools in which the Word of God shines in all learning.
  • Where students of whatever ability are treated as bearers of His image.
  • Where the necessity for the spiritual dimension in human culture is given its proper place in academic pursuits.

    • Logo Description:

    The OACS Board adopted the current tricolour logo in April of 1993 in order to provide a graphic display of our vision.

    The foundation of the entire design is the cross on a blue background square. The square is inverted, or rolling without corners, in order to give a dynamic impression. This image is further enhanced by the pointed hands and the focus of the design on the human head.

    Although the individual is central in education, the embracing hands point out the theme of community of learning. The vertical and horizontal arms indicate the human and divine dimensions of community in which all human beings exist.

    The centre of the logo is the person—in light red—with outstretched arms and a head. This symbolizes the central features of education: reaching out (the green) to others, the world, and God. But it is the action of a thinking human being. In essence, we hope to portray a dynamic openness to knowledge and revelation and a commitment to the individual in community on the basis of Christian values.

    Core Values:

    1. Christian day schools make a vital contribution to the welfare of Canada and that choice of schooling is in the public interest.

    2. Communicating the vision of normative Christian education is important for the welfare of Christian families everywhere.

    3. Christian schooling should be affordable for the average Canadian family.

    4. Standards of excellence in school management, instructional design, and student performance are identifiable and achievable.

    5. A flourishing Christian school always has a defined growth program.The OACS Board adopted the current tricolour

     

    Ontario Alliance of Christian Schools
    617 Garner Road East, Ancaster, Ontario, L9G 3K9
    P: 905-648-2100 F: 905-648-2110 E: oacs@oacs.org W: http://www.oacs.org
    © 2006