Westbury Christian School

History

Plans for the establishment of Westbury Christian School began in the early 1970s with several families of the Westbury church of Christ. WCS started as a "Mother's Day Out" activity of the church. Soon, demand required that a licensed day care center be started. Following close behind the successful pre-school program was demand for adding elementary grades, middle school, and finally the high school. WCS was formally chartered in February 1975 with visionary support from the Westbury church of Christ elders.

Operations

Although staffed by members of the churches of Christ, the school is independently operated by a Board of Trustees. The Westbury congregation has donated the use of their facilities to the school since the beginning, but does not contribute funds for operations. The church and the school continue to work together sharing facilities

Westbury Christian School receives no financial assistance from any interest group or government body. Income is realized from tuition and fees, plus special fund raisers. Associate groups, like the Wildcat Athletic Boosters, Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), and others, raise funds for special projects.

Accreditation

In 1988, Westbury Christian School received accreditation from two prestigious accrediting agencies; the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), and the National Christian Schools Association (NCSA). Due to the integrity of these two agencies, WCS credits are acceptable at any educational institution in the USA. In 2006, WCS successfully completed a five-year self study that validated its continuing accreditation by the AdvancED and the NCSA. Through a college preparatory curriculum aligned with state curriculum requirements and objectives, high school students can choose from a dozen Advanced Placement courses, which enable them to receive college credits while in high school, pending appropriate AP exam scores. AP exams are taken at the end of the year, and close of the course. At WCS we use the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills and all classes are taught from a Christian perspective. One advantage we have over public schools is that we can teach the subject matter of the curriculum, not to a state mandated test like TAKS.

Life in 3D

WCS offers a Three-Dimensional Program of education for students ages K3-12. It consists of a Spiritual Development Program, an Academic Development Program, and a Student Activity Program. Each one of these three dimensions receives equal attention in application. From the time students set foot on the campus in the morning, until they leave school in the afternoon, every movement, regulation and activity is structured with one of the three dimensions in mind. Although the academic classroom will forever be necessary to facilitate the scope and sequence of subject matter, a Christian school has responsibilities beyond the classroom in order to prepare youth "for here and eternity." Daily Bible classes, and chapel assemblies are implemented into the WCS curriculum to ensure their students gain a full understanding of the Christian perspective. The administration, faculty and staff of Westbury Christian School are committed as educators and spiritual mentors to the students and as partners with the home.

Charlie Ward Tribute to Excellence

The Charlie Ward Tribute to Excellence, named after Heisman Trophy winner, former NBA player, and coach of the Westbury Christian Wildcats Varsity football team, recognizes individuals of distinction, commitment and faith. The Uncommon Community campaign is the continuation of a dream and is moving forward with the assistance of dedicated people who are passionate about serving youth.

Athletic tradition

Compete in the Texas Association of Private and Parochial School (TAPPS) 4-A district.

The WCS varsity boys' basketball program began in 1981, and since its inception, the Wildcats have won 16 state championships. They are consistently ranked among the top schools, both statewide and nationally, each year.

Heisman trophy winner, and former NBA star, Charlie Ward, served as the head coach of the WCS varsity football team through 2013.

Notable alumni

Dennis Kelly, Class of 2000, world-renowned sports producer of award-winning broadcasts such as the High School Blitz and Sports Night