Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who sends their children to Stratford & District Christian School?
There is no such thing as a typical Stratford & District Christian School family. Our students include the children of farmers, teachers, electricians, retailers, doctors, carpenters, professors, mechanics, secretaries, and engineers. Our Stratford families worship at a wide range of over fifteen local churches.
As SDCS families it is our desire to educate our children in a Christian environment, an environment that shares the values and beliefs taught in the home.
2. Who runs the school?
The school is operated by the Stratford & District Christian School Society. The school Society elects a Board of Directors, which sets the policies for the school's operation and hires the staff.
3. Is SDCS accredited?
Yes, Stratford & District Christian School is registered with the Ontario Ministry of Education. SDCS is also a member of three supporting organizations, the Ontario Alliance of Christian Schools (OACS), Christian Schools Canada (CSC) and Christian Schools International (CSI).
4. Do students participate in standardized testing?
The Canadian Test of Basic Skills, a national standardized testing program is administered every other year to grades three through eight. Parents are welcome to review the results of these tests, to determine areas for their child to work on, and to review the school's overall performance as well. Past results have shown that our students test at least one grade level above their grade standard as compared to the Canadian schools across the country that have participated in the testing.
5. When students graduate from grade eight, can they transfer to another school?
Absolutely. Students can easily transfer to other schools, as the curriculum at SDCS meets provincial guidelines and requirements.
6. What is the cost of tuition?
Tuition costs are set on a per family basis, and the amounts change from year to year. The tuition charge is based on grade level and number of student's attending. For a copy of the most recent tuition grid, please check out our tuition section of our website under the Finances Menu. To see a guideline to tuition costs, please click here. For current information contact us at the school.
7. Do you have a dress code?
Yes, we do. The dress code is based on Christian standards of modesty and neatness. This policy is enforced by the Principal and approved by the Board of Directors.
8. I am interested in being involved and helping out at the school. What opportunities are available to me?
There are many opportunities: parents may chaperone a field trip, help with special events, give assistance to students who are struggling academically, work in the library, and in many other areas. You may also want to be involved in a committee. Committees include Building and Maintenance, various Fundraisers, Transportation, Finance, Program, Promotion, Membership, and Technology.
9. Does the school offer any extra-curricular activities?
Yes, the school offers a music program from the primary grades through to grades seven and eight band. Sports teams include volleyball, basketball, soccer, ice hockey, softball, and track and field.
10. What school educational programs do you offer?
We offer Reading, Writing, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science, Bible, Physical Education, Health Education, Music, French, and Art. Complete details of the curriculum are available in the "Course Outline" binder located in the school's office.
We also offer a library, a special education resource room, computers in every classroom, computer lab, gymnasium, and a well-equipped playground.
11. How do parents keep informed?
A weekly newsletter is sent home to each family, outlining major assignments and important dates. This newsletter also includes a report from the principal, and a short note from each teacher summarizing what will be covered in the coming week in each classroom.
12. Does the school provide transportation?
Yes, a bus transportation service services Mitchell, St. Mary's, Tavistock, Shakespeare, Milverton, and the surrounding areas.
13. How long has the school been in operation?
The school has been in operation since 1977.
14. How can I find out more?
A complete information package is available from the school. We encourage students and parents to come to the school for a tour and meet with our principal, Mr. Straatsma. To contact Mr. Straatsma please email principal@sdcs.on.ca