As the 2024-25 school year begins, parents and grandparents across the nation are revisiting a critical question: How should Christians, particularly parents, approach public education? A recent article by Stefani McCade in *Christianity Today*, titled “Public School Can Be a Training Ground for Faith,” has reignited this important discussion around whether Christian parents should enroll their children in public schools
This topic sparks passionate debate, with strong opinions on both sides. Kirk Cameron argues that sending children to public school amounts to “subcontracting their parenting and discipleship out to the government.” On the other hand, Jen Wilkin advocates for public education, emphasizing its potential for providing diverse socialization and exposing children to different worldviews.
Reflecting on my own experiences, I attended Houston Public Schools from 1952 to 1965, while my children, born in the 1970s, were educated entirely in private schools. My wife and I made a commitment in 1972 to prioritize Christian education for our children, believing it essential for their spiritual development. We willingly made financial sacrifices to ensure they received an education aligned with our faith.
I am grateful to see our children—now adults—thriving in their local churches. I vividly remember my daughter’s kindergarten graduation, where her class recited Bible verses and sang, “I am a promise, I am a possibility.” That moment reinforced our belief that investing in Christian education was the best decision we could make.
I firmly believe that Christian children—indeed, all children—benefit most from a Christian school or homeschooling environment. This perspective is rooted in the obligation to disciple our children according to Christian principles, as outlined in Deuteronomy 6. The teachers our children spend significant time with play a crucial role in shaping their moral and spiritual development.
While some argue that public school can serve as a mission field, I’m reminded of the ill-fated "Children’s Crusade" of the 13th century. We shouldn’t send children into potentially hostile environments when their primary focus should be on learning and growth.
Critics of Christian schooling often suggest that these students lack exposure to diverse backgrounds. However, my experience in Dallas showed me that many Christian schools are more diverse than their public counterparts. A viable solution is to enhance access to Christian education for ethnically diverse communities.
Concerns about affordability and access are valid, particularly for single mothers. I believe every conservative Christian church should either run a Christian school or collaborate with others to provide this opportunity. Churches should also work to create scholarship programs to support families in need.
When discussing “Christian” and “public” education, it’s essential to recognize that definitions can vary widely. While some public schools may not actively undermine Judeo-Christian values, they often fall short of what a dedicated Christian education provides. I also advocate for vouchers and tax credits, enabling parents to choose the best educational settings for their children.
In the past, public schools posed little threat to Christian values, but today’s landscape is different. Parents must contend with the reality that public schools may challenge their core beliefs.
Regardless of where children are enrolled, it’s vital for parents to stay engaged with public education in their communities to ensure that children are not harmed emotionally or spiritually.
In a memorable encounter with a school superintendent, I questioned some troubling practices in his district. When he dismissed my concerns because I didn’t have children in his schools, I reminded him that, as a taxpayer, I had a vested interest in public education. This highlights the importance of accountability in our public schools.
I believe public schools can be beneficial for Christian educators and administrators, but I question whether they are the best environment for Christian students.
As a final thought, it’s worth noting that public school teachers and administrators often choose private schools for their own children. What do they understand about the educational landscape that we should consider?
