Adventist education isn’t just about academics—it’s about creating a community where faith and learning come together in meaningful ways. For many students, their school feels like a second family, a place where they can grow spiritually, build relationships, and experience the joy of discovery. We asked several students from different schools to share what they love most about their Adventist education. Here’s what they had to say:
A Multi-Grade Adventure
“I like that we have multi-grade classrooms because it’s easier for us to help each other. When the teacher is working with another grade, we can focus on our work and avoid homework. It’s a small school, so there’s no bullying. We get Bible class, the pastor comes for chapel, and he even plays with us at recess! We also enjoy fun field trips and lots of specials thanks to our volunteers. On Fridays, we have half days, which is awesome. I’ve been here my whole school life, even since the school opened. Every year, we have Week of Prayer, do fun activities, and hear great stories. We even had a writer’s workshop!” – Seth Lundstrom, 5th Grade; Jace McNeilus, 6th Grade; Phillip Lundstrom, 4th Grade
A Close-Knit Community
“We pray a lot before classes, and I love our multi-grade classrooms. With so few students, it’s easy to know everyone and help others. Bible class every day makes our school unique, and I get to work with younger kids, which I enjoy.
We do a lot of fun activities, too. In science, we’ve done experiments and labs. When we learned about Lewis and Clark, we sewed coonskin caps like theirs and then explored the schoolyard as if we were adventurers. I love it here.” – Summer McNeilus, 5th Grade
A Personal Touch
“My name is Emily, and my mom is my teacher. But I’m not homeschooled—I go to Blackberry SDA School. Before I started first grade, my mom was called to teach at Capital City SDA School, where I attended Kindergarten. I loved it, but city life wasn’t for us. After second grade, my mom looked for another Adventist school and found Blackberry. We visited one Sabbath and were welcomed so warmly that we knew it was the right fit.
Our school feels like family. The personal attention I get here has given me a strong education. Morning Bible study is one of my favorite parts; it helps me feel closer to God. I wouldn’t trade my school for anything.” – Emily Hiner, 6th Grade
A Transformational Journey
“Adventist schools have changed my perspective on God. Learning from teachers who love Jesus has shown me that God isn’t just waiting for us to mess up. He wants a relationship with us, loves us, and has a solution before we even face problems. Studying the Bible in class reminds me how merciful and forgiving He is. I’m so lucky to attend a school where teachers and students care about God.
It wasn’t easy to get here. My grandma taught me in Kindergarten at another Adventist school, but after challenges there, I was homeschooled for a while. Later, my parents divorced, and I moved in with my grandparents. When my older sisters started attending Blackberry, I was jealous. When I finally got to join, I was thrilled. From the first day, I felt like I belonged. Adventist schools have been such a blessing in my life.” – Aubrey Cape, 8th Grade
These reflections reveal the profound impact Adventist schools can have on young lives. Through nurturing teachers, faith-based learning, and supportive communities, students are discovering not only knowledge but also the love and character of God. In their own words, these students remind us that education isn’t just about what you learn—it’s about who you become.
Combined & Written by Savannah Carlson
