Business Details
Christ-Centered Education for Lifelong Growth
Southwest Chicago Christian Schools is a Christ-centered learning community dedicated to fostering transformational growth through education. Established over a century ago, we serve students from preschool through 12th grade across three campuses in the southwest suburbs of Chicago. Our mission integrates faith with academic excellence, nurturing students spiritually, academically, and socially. With a 12:1 student-teacher ratio and a curriculum rooted in the Reformed tradition, we emphasize biblical worldview integration, leadership development, and service to others.Accredited by Christian Schools International and Cognia, our programs prepare students for college, career, and calling while celebrating diversity from over 120 churches and 75 communities. We invest in faculty who know students by name and potential, creating a supportive environment where students own their learning journey and develop into Christ-centered leaders.
Services
Preschool Programs
Elementary Education
Middle School Curriculum
High School Academics
College Preparation
Athletics Programs
Fine Arts
Student Leadership
Spiritual Development
Community Service
Details
- Year established: 1900
Highlights and features
- We integrate biblical worldview into every classroom and activity
- 12:1 student-teacher ratio ensures personalized attention
- Accredited by Christian Schools International and Cognia
- Over 150 churches represented in our diverse community
- 91% college-bound graduates with strong academic preparation
Associations and certifications
- Christian Schools International
- Cognia
What people say
Faith-integrated curriculum
Caring teachers
Strong community
College preparation
Spiritual growth
Services
Preschool Programs
Our preschool programs nurture young learners through play-based curriculum and biblical foundation. Certified educators create developmentally appropriate environments that foster social, emotional, and spiritual growth. Families from diverse church backgrounds participate in this formative educational experience.
Middle School Curriculum
Middle school combines rigorous academics with character development through project-based learning and biblical integration. Students engage in STEM, humanities, and arts while building leadership skills through clubs and service projects.
High School Academics
College preparatory curriculum includes AP courses, dual credit opportunities, and vocational exploration. Faculty guide students in critical thinking and spiritual discernment while maintaining 91% college acceptance rates.
Athletics Programs
Competitive sports programs develop physical skills and Christian character through teamwork and sportsmanship. Offerings include football, basketball, track, robotics, and fine arts performances across three campuses.
Spiritual Development
Daily chapel services, Bible classes, and mentorship programs deepen students' relationship with Christ. Spiritual growth is integrated across all subjects and extracurricular activities through the Teaching for Transformation framework.
People
Mark Hamstra
Superintendent
Superintendent Mark Hamstra leads with 20+ years of educational leadership experience. A Wheaton College graduate, he previously served in military and educational administration roles, focusing on strategic vision and Christ-centered education.
CJ Cesario
Director of Mission Advancement
CJ Cesario directs development efforts with background in kinesiology and educational leadership. He combines athletic coaching experience with fundraising expertise to advance the school's mission and capital projects.
Becky Parks
Director of Learning
Director of Learning Becky Parks brings expertise in curriculum development and special education. With degrees from Calvin and Drake Universities, she focuses on instructional excellence and student support programs across all campuses.
Michael Drury
Principal, CCHS
Principal Michael Drury oversees high school operations with history and educational leadership credentials. He emphasizes college preparation and spiritual growth while managing campus modernization initiatives.
Philip Siemer
Principal, Tinley Park Campus
Principal Philip Siemer leads the Tinley Park campus with English and German teaching experience. His background includes curriculum development and leadership training, focusing on community engagement and academic excellence.
Questions
What makes CCS different from other schools?
CCS uniquely integrates biblical worldview into all subjects through Teaching for Transformation, maintaining 12:1 student-teacher ratios and 91% college acceptance rates across three campuses.
What grade levels does CCS serve?
We serve preschool through 12th grade across three campuses: Tinley Park and Oak Lawn for K-8, and Palos Heights for high school.
Is CCS accredited?
Yes, we hold dual accreditation from Christian Schools International and Cognia, meeting rigorous academic and faith-based standards.
How does CCS integrate faith and learning?
Our Teaching for Transformation framework connects all subjects to God's redemptive story, with daily chapel, Bible classes, and service projects across grade levels.
What extracurricular opportunities exist?
We offer 150+ clubs, sports teams, and arts programs including robotics, fine arts, and competitive athletics at all three campuses.
What financial assistance options are available?
We provide tuition assistance through the Knights Fund, TRIP program, and financial aid applications to support families seeking Christ-centered education.
