God's Groundwork for Success

by Adam Kronberger / Superintendent

Bunched together in the back of the classroom were nine young men, 14 and 15 year-olds, with a degree of nervousness written on their faces. Staring back at them was a 32 year-old school principal with a half-dozen emotions written on his face. Anxious parents had already taken their pictures and left this group behind to begin their adventure. It was the first day of school for the first class of Crosshill Christian High School.  

There was one primary purpose when those pioneering families and visionary school leaders determined to extend our school’s offerings beyond 8th grade seven years ago. They wanted a high school that would continue to provide discipleship support to their children as they transitioned into young adulthood. Throughout the next four years the foundation for the high school was laid, with dozens of “firsts” experienced by those pioneering families.

As the high school shifts from pioneering something new to establishing and building something that lasts, the school is receiving growing recognition. The boys basketball team is at the OSAA State Championship Tournament for the third straight year, along with half the student body. Volleyball teams, Cross-Country teams,Track teams, and Band have also received ongoing state accolades. The Fine Arts program continues to be recognized nationally. Schools and families around the state have become familiar with hearing about Crosshill and the growth and accomplishments of its student body.  

The high school’s success reminds me of so many other areas of life. Oftentimes what gets noticed by others is not necessarily the most important thing. Certainly, high school activities and accomplishments are a significant component to both the mission and culture of the school. Through the leadership of coaches and leaders, the students’ character is developed, oftentimes in ways not readily available in the classroom. And students are guided toward personal growth and excellence in these activities. Still, championships were never the main thing. Making disciples of Christ was and still is the main thing.  

Each time the high school experiences success, the look on parents’ faces says it all. It is not the look of relief or even arrogant triumph, but rather joy and pleasure, like a child whose parent gives them an extra cookie. God has been so good to us with his love, and has constantly guided the life of this school. On top of everything else, when our children shine like the stars, it feels like a special gift just for us.  

One member of our state basketball team started at CCS in preschool, and another athlete on the team used to walk the hallways of the Keizer Campus. They will remember this experience for the rest of their lives. But more importantly, I believe they will not only remember but put into practice the lessons learned through hundreds of hours of rubbing shoulders with the staff and families of the CCS community... as disciples of Jesus Christ. 
 
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– Adam Kronberger / Superintendent