Christ-Centered AND College Prep

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From the desk of Rod Fletcher, Headmaster:

I tell people often that one of the main distinctives that sets Brook Hill apart from other schools is that we are both Christ–centered and college preparatory. Some schools focus on preparing students for college within the framework of a secular worldview with no intention of “encouraging students to honor God through Christ-like character.” Some schools focus on teaching students about Jesus without preparing them academically, artistically, and athletically to succeed in college and in life. I once heard a Headmaster at a Christian School say proudly, “we are not as academically strong as the public schools, but we are safe.” At Brook Hill, our goal is to provide students with a comprehensive, quality, Christ-centered, college preparatory education that prepares their hearts, minds, and souls so that they can thrive in both college and in life.

One of my favorite things is hearing from our alumni that we are achieving our goal. I recently received the following email from Sang Jun (Justin) Lee, a Brook Hill graduate form the class of 2007. Sang Jun was a boarding student from South Korea who was very academically motivated and who immersed himself in the many opportunities that were available at Brook Hill. Sang Jun truly received a “Brook Hill” education and I am proud to call him an alum.

Dear Mr. Fletcher,

This is Sang Jun (Justin). I hope you are enjoying your winter break.

I am now entering the second semester of my graduate school at Duke and although it has been tougher than Rice’s curriculum, it is yet manageable. Also, in this secular world, I cannot emphasize enough how the Christ-centered education at Brook Hill has been important to me, especially when I feel shaken by new challenges. Since I was constantly exposed to Christian teaching at Brook Hill, I never felt distant from Christ and it was comfortable for me to seek out His guidance whenever I faced hardships. In this respect, I really credit my education at Brook Hill in that it was not just about infusing secular knowledge. I hope Brook Hill continues this great tradition of Christian education and that it shines out among many others.

I just want to say that the most important mission of Brook Hill (I think) is to offer a Christian environment to students who were never exposed to Christian beliefs so that they can be, at least, familiar with who Jesus is and what He has done for humanity. I think this is very important, irrespective of their religions or countries because He has left behind a truly stellar legacy or example to all of us even beyond religious domains. The story of His sacrifice is touching itself; one forgave and died for the sins of others. I believe no man can do that. Once the students need some guidance or help in their life afterwards, they will, at least, know to whom they need to turn since they should have heard of Him overtime and should have already become familiar with who He is. I think this is what makes the school different from others since it teaches about being righteous in the right way. And, this was what led to my baptism in 2009 during my military service.

Of course, my testimony can be quoted if it can help others hear about Him!

And, I am happy to share my faith with others too.

Best regards,

Sang Jun (Justin)

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