Location. WCS is located in Tigard, Oregon, a rapidly growing suburb on the southwest side of Portland. Map & Directions

School History. Westgate Christian School began its first year in the fall of 1988 as a ministry of Westgate Baptist Church—a fundamental, independent, Bible-believing church. The school began with Grades K5 through Grade 3, and an additional grade was added each year with K4 and Grade 6 added in 1991-92. Commencing with the 1992-93 school year, WCS added Grades 7 through 12. The school ministry was founded specifically to help parents meet their God-given mandate to train their children in the light of Scripture.

Mission Statement. The purpose of WCS is to assist parents in raising their children to prepare them for adult challenges and responsibilities in ministry, as well as in the secular realm. The primary aspects of the WCS mission include a Bible-based education, spiritual edification, and student evangelism in a Godly environment. A fundamental tenet of the WCS mission is helping students to internalize Biblical principles in an academic setting that stresses high standards in the areas of personal discipline and accountability, Christian servanthood, and Biblical separation. Philosophy of Christian Education

Affiliations. WCS is a ministry of Westgate Baptist Church. WCS is a member of the Northwest Association of Christian Schools (NWACS) and the American Association of Christian Schools (AACS). Our pastor, Dr. Ben Jaquith, is the president of the chapter.

Administration. Our principal, Dr. Dean Bryan, has a masters degree in educational administration and has 39 years of experience in various aspects of Christian education.

Faculty. All of our faculty are well-qualified academically and are born-again Christians who are dedicated to serving the Lord through the ministry of teaching young people. Faculty & Staff

Facilities. WCS provides attractive classrooms, a library, and computer lab. We have under construction a 42,000 square-foot building with a gym/auditorium, science lab, computer lab, home economics room, etc.

Academic Program. WCS provides a challenging, instructional program for students in K4 through Grade 12 in a structured, loving environment. The lower grades utilize a strong phonics-based reading program. The secondary program is largely college preparatory. Classes are conducted in a conventional classroom setting. Each year the Stanford Achievement Tests are given in Grades 1-12. Average scores are well above national norms on the SAT.

Fine Arts Program. Art is taught each year in K4 through Grade 6. Two levels of band are available beginning in Grade 5. Private piano and brass lessons are available. Our students participate in the NWACS Fine Arts Competition each year.

Curriculum. We primarily use the A Beka Book curriculum along with Bob Jones University Press and Positive Action for Christ. Informational brochures are available in the office.

Enrollment. Our current enrollment is approximately 190 students.

Discipline. Teachers of K4 through Grade 6 use a system with negative and positive reinforcements. Good behavior awards are given out each month in chapel. Grades 7-12 use a demerit system.

Dress. Appearance has a great affect on attitude, and hence, learning. Students need to dress neatly, modestly, and appropriately. Girls in K4 through Grade 4 may wear knee-length dresses or skirts and blouses (culottes may be worn during physically active events). Boys in K4 through Grade 4 may wear cords or slacks (no blue denim) and shirts with collars. Grades 5-12 wear uniforms. Boys are asked to keep hair length tapered, off the ears and collar.

After School Activities. Available for K5 through Grade 8 for $5 per hour. Call the school office for more information and for an application form.

Lunch and Snacks. Students provide their own lunches and snacks. Healthy foods are encouraged. Snacks are scheduled at mid-morning for kindergarten and at recess for the elementary grades.

Transportation. Parents take responsibility for transporting their children to and from school. Carpools are often efficient and economically desirable. Parents interested in carpooling may have an opportunity to meet others who may also be interested at Orientation. School personnel may be able to assist in providing potential contacts for carpooling.

Graduation Requirements. WCS requires 24 credit-hours for graduation. There will be a graduation fee assessed of $50 for each graduating senior.

Daily Schedule. Except as noted otherwise on the detailed annual calendar provided to parents at the start of each school year, the normal daily routine is as follows:

School Nickname: The Gators School Mascot: Wes Gator School Colors: Blue and White