Oskaloosa Christian School logo featuring a shield, sword, and the letters "OC

About Us

A Story Worth Joining

Oskaloosa Christian School’s story began on September 13, 1937, when 43 faithful men gathered with one purpose: to create a place where children could grow in both wisdom and faith. They had no building, no curriculum, and only $8.45 from their first collection.

What they did have was an unshakable belief that Christian education was essential for the glory of God, the strength of the church, the guidance of parents, and the nurturing of children. Nearly 90 years later, that same conviction shapes who we are today.

Building something meaningful is rarely easy. Our founders spent years searching for a permanent home, facing setbacks during World War II’s material shortages. But God had other plans.

In 1946, an unexpected opportunity appeared: the old gymnasium of William Penn College, along with four acres of land, for $16,500. It was a significant investment for families who had already sacrificed so much. Yet, without hesitation, they said yes. On September 3, 1946, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Bouma opened the doors to 46 children whose parents dared to dream of an education that honored both mind and spirit.

That deep hope still connects our families today. Through growth in the 1960s, generous donors clearing school debt in the 1970s, and community efforts to add new buildings in the 1980s and 90s, our mission has remained constant: Assisting families in equipping children to be effective disciples of Jesus Christ.

OCS at a Glance

Founded:

1946

We Serve

Transitional Kindergarten through 8th Grade

Our Approach

Equipping Disciples, Glorifying God, Excelling Together

Our Community

Oskaloosa, Pella, New Sharon, and all of Mahaska County

Mission

Oskaloosa Christian School’s mission is to assist families in equipping children to be effective disciples of Jesus Christ.

Vision

The vision of OC is to provide students and families with an excellent education where

  • God is glorified and preeminent in every aspect of their life.
  • Students love learning and are thoroughly prepared by Christian faculty to move from their point of need to their potential, both spiritually and academically
Students concentrating at desks in a Bonham TX private Christian school classroom.

A Letter from Our Principal

It is my joy to welcome you to Oskaloosa Christian School! We are deeply grateful that you are exploring a Christ-centered education for your family. At our school, everything we do flows from our mission: “Assisting parents in equipping children to be effective disciples of Jesus Christ.”

We believe that education is about much more than academic achievement - it is about shaping the whole child to know, love, and serve the Lord. Our dedicated teachers partner closely with parents to nurture students spiritually, academically, and socially. Christian education is not merely the addition of chapels, prayer, and Biblical study. Every subject and activity, from science to athletics, and history to the arts, is taught through the lens of God’s truth. The ultimate objective is for students to see the world as His creation and their place in it as His disciples.

We also value the vibrant community that makes Oskaloosa Christian so special. Together, parents, teachers, and the local church form a Christ-centered network that supports and encourages children to grow in faith, character, and service. Whether in the classroom, on the playground, or through extracurricular activities, students are challenged to use their gifts to glorify God and impact the world for Christ.

As you consider the right place for your child’s education I invite you to visit us, meet our staff, and experience firsthand the warmth and joy of our school community. We would be honored to walk alongside you in the sacred calling of raising children who live faithfully for Jesus Christ.

My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ. Col. 2:2
For King and kingdom,
Signature image of Oskaloosa Christian School
Sincerely,
Joel Rietema
Principal
Oskaloosa Christian School: Man and student fist bump outside. School About Us.

Is Oskaloosa Christian the right fit for your family?

The best way to understand what makes us different is to spend time here. Contact us today so we can work together to equip children who love Jesus, think clearly, and make a lasting difference in this world.
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