At Oskaloosa Christian, students experience an exceptional education enriched by various co-curricular activities grounded in a strong Christian faith and Biblical integration. Our offerings include athletics, fine arts, and leadership opportunities providing a well-rounded experience for our students.

The mission of Oskaloosa Christian is to assist families in equipping children to be effective disciples of Jesus Christ. Central to this mission are our more than 180 students and 32 dedicated teaching faculty and staff who shape the culture of our campus. Beyond our K-8 programs in Elementary and Middle School, OC also provides a Transitional Kindergarten program and houses SONshine Preschool.

Our vision is to be an institution of excellence, partnering with Christian families and the church where God is glorified and preeminent in every aspect of the life of the school. Students love learning and are thoroughly prepared by Christian faculty to move from their point of need to the peak of their potential, both spiritually and academically. Portrait of a Graduate: Our graduates have a heart desire and longing to be a faithful presence for the Lord in their homes, churches, vocations, and communities.

Our Heritage: A Journey of Faith and Growth

Oskaloosa Christian School stands as a living testament to God’s unwavering faithfulness, from its humble beginnings to the thriving community it is today. Our story began on September 13, 1937, when 43 dedicated men came together to form a society of parents and supporters committed to the necessity of Christian education—for the glory of God, the strength of the church, the guidance of parents, and the nurturing of children. With just $8.45 collected, the foundation of Oskaloosa Christian was laid during the challenging days of the Great Depression.

Despite the hardships of the era, the vision for a Christian education took root. In June 1940, our first Board of Education initiated a Bible school, marking the beginning of our educational journey. By September 3, 1946, after overcoming the challenges of World War II and securing a permanent home, Oskaloosa Christian School officially opened its doors to 46 eager students in Grades 1-8, guided by our first teachers, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Bouma. The school’s first location was the former grounds and gymnasium of William Penn College, purchased for $16,500—an ambitious investment at the time.

Through the years, Oskaloosa Christian School has witnessed a rich tapestry of moments—triumphs, challenges, and memorable stories. From the early days when local families tended peach trees on the school grounds in exchange for half the fruit, to the construction of the “teacherage” house for just over $10,000 (now a rental property), our history is filled with unique and heartwarming anecdotes.

The school continued to grow, adapting to the needs of its expanding student body. By the mid-1960s, enrollment had surged to 193 students, prompting creative solutions like converting the teacherage basement into classrooms. New buildings and expansions followed, including a two-room addition for our SONshine Pre-School and kindergarten, and further classroom expansions funded by the unwavering support of our community.

In 1969, the school was officially named The Oskaloosa School for Christian Instruction (OSCI), a name that reflected our growing identity and mission. The 1980s and 1990s brought further growth, with new facilities including a gymnasium, serving kitchen, and music room, enhancing our ability to provide a well-rounded education to our students.

Today, Oskaloosa Christian School is more than just a place of learning; it is a community rooted in faith, dedicated to nurturing the hearts and minds of future generations. Our journey is a testament to God’s provision, the vision of our founders, and the unwavering support of families and friends who believe in the transformative power of Christian education. We invite you to become a part of this ongoing story, as we continue to build a bright future equipping children to be effective disciples of Jesus Christ.