Laying a Foundation for a Godly Generation

Welcome to Elora Road Christian School …a place where creativity thrives, where students excel, and where the love of God abounds. Since 1981, we have equipped the next generation with a Biblical foundation that permeates every area of academic and student life. Today’s fast-paced, media-saturated culture demands that we take initiative and ensure that our children are armed with God’s Truth in practical, everyday life. More than ever before, the burden of responsibility has fallen upon us to equip our children as tomorrow’s leaders in the workplace and community.

Are you… seeking a rigorous academic curriculum for your child?

looking for an educational partner who shares your Christian values?

ready for your child to become a passionate Jesus follower?

Then join us…

…as we delve into the special place that is Elora Road Christian School.

Small Classes, Big Opportunities We keep our classes small on purpose. Crowded, over-subscribed learning environments can reduce the opportunity for a teacher’s interaction with students on a one-to-one basis. To foster a strong learning environment, we maintain a healthy maximum class size to provide each student with increased access to their teachers. Since academic standards are set high, requiring each student to obtain 60% to pass, small classes facilitate greater student success in academic advancement.

As a small school family, teachers have the opportunity to understand the heart of each student, with trusting relationships paving the way for accountability. While ERCS parents commit to partnering with the School in the education of their children, students in grades five through eight also promise to work with their teachers and demonstrate Christ-like leadership through the Student’s Pledge.

Fostering Leadership, Cultivating Jesus’ Followers Our school environment is structured to encourage students to Christ-like maturity. We are never more like Jesus than when we serve others! This is why older students assist younger students with simple tasks, such as helping little ones get ready for outdoor time. While creating a support system to younger students, older students are placed in a position of appropriate responsibility to demonstrate leadership to their peers. Opportunities for meaningful discussion, mentorship and discipleship abound because of our buddy system, under the caring guidance of our teachers.

Will Christian education empower my child to effectively reach out to others?

“Go Therefore and make disciples of all the nations…” Matthew 28:19

What beliefs and values are my children learning at school?

A Curriculum of Truth Our curriculum is designed to keep Christ at the centre. All truth is God’s truth, so all subjects are taught from a Biblical perspective. The creativity in the Arts, the beauty of math, and the complexities of the sciences all demonstrate God’s marvellous design. Our curriculum reinforces it. Bible is an academic subject, and facilitating an understanding of God’s Word is a top priority in our curriculum. Students are encouraged to learn the Word through daily devotions, memory work and recitation. However, we also provide instruction on the practical applications of God’s Word in daily life. Developing a Christ-like character in our students is of the utmost importance, and is paramount to our existence as a school.

Where Creativity Thrives We value the Arts. God is the ultimate Creator, and we make every effort to foster a sense of creativity in students. Our curriculum encourages age-appropriate artistic training and development at all grade levels. Participation in band, choir and school musicals are part of the learning experience offered at Elora Road Christian School. This makes our students comfortable speaking in front of a crowd at a young age. Private piano lessons are also available on site.

Sports Development ERCS is a proud member of CAASO, the Christian Athletic Association of Southwestern Ontario. This gives older students opportunities to participate in sports tournaments such as soccer, cross country, basketball, volleyball and track & field.

Academic Highlights - ERCS consistently meets or exceeds Ontario Ministry of Education Guidelines

- Our high academic standards require students to obtain 60% to pass

- Phonics, counting and printing are taught and evaluated at the Junior Kindergarten level - French is taught beginning in Grade 3

- Homework is mandatory beginning in Grade 3

- Instrumental Music is available as an extra-curricular activity for students in Grades 4 to 8

An ERCS education does not mean learning in a bubble. We are intentional about equipping children with an understanding of the biblical worldview and how it relates to other worldviews.

Statement of Core Family Values 1. We believe that human life begins at conception and therefore an unborn child is a fully human person (Genesis 1:28, Psalm 127:3, Psalm 139, Exodus 20:13). 2. We believe that sexual activity, including but not limited to intercourse, is morally wrong outside of marriage (Ephesians 5:31, 1 Corinthians 6:16-20, 1 Corinthians 7:2). 3. We believe that God’s design for marriage is exclusively heterosexual (Romans 1:27, Ephesians 5:31). 4. We believe that promoting or encouraging hatred against any individual or group is incompatible with the teachings of Christianity and is unacceptable in our school (1 Corinthians 13, Galatians 5:22).

Everything we do is an opportunity to give glory to God. Education is no different. That is why we adhere to the philosophy of Christian schools:

- We are an extension of your home. The biblical, Christ-centred values you draw on to teach, encourage and guide your child are implemented in the classroom and on the school yard.

- We are your partner. We encourage parents and teachers to work together to the maximum benefit of each child.

Statement of Faith 1. We believe the Bible to be the inspired, the only 5. We believe in the resurrection of both the infallible, authoritative, inerrant Word of God (II saved and the lost; they that are saved unto the resurrection of life, and they that are lost unto the Timothy 3:15, II Peter 1:21). resurrection of damnation ( John 5:28-29). 2. We believe that God the Father, eternally existent, has revealed Himself in His Son, Jesus 6. We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in Christ, by the Holy Spirit (Genesis 1:1, Matthew our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 8:9, I Corinthians 12:12-23, Galatians 3:26-28). 28:19, John 10:30). 3. We believe in the deity of Christ ( John 10:33); His virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23, Luke 1:35); His sinless life (Hebrews 4:15, Hebrews 7:26); His miracles ( John 2:11); His vicarious and atoning death (I Corinthians 15:3, Ephesians 1:7, Hebrews 2:9); His resurrection ( John 11:25, I Corinthians 15:40); His ascension to the right hand of the Father (Mark 16:19); His personal return in power and glory (Acts 1:11, Revelation 19:11). 4.We believe in the absolute necessity of regeneration by the Holy Spirit for salvation because of the exceeding sinfulness of human nature; and that men are justified on the single ground of faith in the shed blood of Christ and that only by God’s grace and through faith alone we are saved ( John 3:16-19, John 5:24, Romans 3:23, Romans 5:8-9, Ephesians 2:8-10, Titus 3:5).

7. We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life (Romans 8:13-14, I Corinthians 3:16, I Corinthians 6:19-20, Ephesians 4:30, Ephesians 5:18). The heart of Elora Road Christian School is to disciple students in the midst of a Christ-centred education. Our desire is for ERCS alumnus to be brave, confident and passionate about sharing the Word with their friends, family, fellow students, colleagues and communities at large. That is why we go beyond academic excellence by making character development central to our mission. It it is the ministry of Elora Road Christian School to develop fully devoted followers of Jesus.

Testimonies When we were looking for an alternative to public schooling, Elora Road Christian School became our school of choice. Primarily, it was small class sizes and the family feel of the school that won our hearts over. After attending for a few years, it became evident that the Christian element of this school was what set it apart. The love that the teachers have for all the children, not just their students, and the way the school truly is an extension of the family has made it the best place for our children to receive their formal education. We would highly recommend Elora Road Christian School to anyone looking for a better option for the first 10 years of their child’s education! Debbie & Andy C., ERCS Parents Attending Elora Road Christian School has given me a strong foundation for my faith and education. The teachers work hard to create a loving environment to learn and grow in. They make sure that you understand every lesson and take time during recess to help you if you need it. Eric M., 2014 Graduating Student

Elora Road Christian School was a great experience for me. My time at ERCS gave me the opportunity to cultivate lasting friendships, develop godly character and excel academically. Without a doubt, the transition from ERCS to the public high school was made easier due to the high standards that ERCS promotes. If I have children someday, I will definitely enroll them at ERCS. Kristen K., ERCS Alumni Being alumni of ERCS, I’ve valued the academic and spiritual foundation established in my elementary years there. It is very clear to me, though, that the benefits and impact of this Christian schooling went hand in hand with the godly upbringing founded in my home. What a beautiful resource for a parent. Christine K., ERCS Alumni

Active in Our Community Each April, Elora Road Christian School hosts the Marden Marathon in support of the Groves Hospital Foundation. Fostering a sense of volunteerism and community spirit, this event provides students with the opportunity to make an impact in the community in a practical and tangible way. All students and their families are encouraged to participate by running or volunteering at the event. Intentional leadership opportunities are granted to those who enrol in the Student Ambassador Program. Since its inaugural race in 2011, the Marden Marathon has raised over $28,000 to support the Foundation. Offering a half, 10k, 5k, and family fun run, the event annually draws more than 600 runners from across Canada. For more information on the Marden Marathon, visit www.mardenmarathon.ca.

Our School Grounds

Elora Road Christian School is situated on 20 acres just north of Guelph, Ontario. Our rural setting grants students access to the beauty of God’s creation, where our grounds back onto Grand

River Conservation Authority designated land. This provides students with a unique atmosphere to learn and be inspired, away from the hustle and bustle of busy city life.

What’s Your Next Step? Come and meet us in person! Take a tour of our facility with our Principal, who will gladly answer your questions about attending Elora Road Christian School. To book your tour, contact Administrator today:

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Phone: 519.824.1890 Email: [email protected] Website: www.eloraroad.ca 5696 Wellington Road 7 Guelph ON N1H 6J2

Photography: GOAD Media Graphic Design: Kenny Kroeker