Meet Mrs. Schlyper & Family
Horizon Christian School was doubly blessed back in January 2021 when Tamara Schlyper became the front desk receptionist at our elementary and middle school. Her two children have since joined the school and we are so happy to have this family as part of our school community. Keep reading to learn a little more about Mrs. Schlyper and why she and her family love Horizon Christian School.
HCS: What influenced your decision to join our school and describe your role and how you serve here?
Mrs. Schlyper: It had always been a dream of mine to work in a school setting alongside my own children, but we never had a firm timeline of when that would happen or where we felt called. We began praying for a door to open for us. One night I decided to browse the Horizon website as I'd always heard great things about the school and had church friends that attended and loved it. I clicked on "Employment" and realized the door the Lord wanted me to walk through was applying for this position! I like to think of my role as manning the Command Center!! My daily tasks range anywhere from attendance and general clerical work, to nurse and ad-lib counselor. As the first person you see when you enter our school, I love that I get to warmly welcome parents and students alike. My goal is to know every student's name and I'm happy to report that I'm nearly there! 
HCS: What key factors influenced your choice to enroll your child at Horizon Christian School?
Mrs. Schlyper: We wanted a place where our children were more than just a number, but rather are treated as unique individuals with limitless potential. Horizon teachers struck us as being motivated and engaged in their classrooms - which was a dramatic difference from what we were experiencing in public school during 2020. Even with the challenges of COVID, at Horizon Christian we saw teachers lifting that burden from students and renewing a sense of normalcy to their classrooms. We also noticed (and appreciated) the emphasis that teachers and staff put on teaching and cultivating Christian principles in a secular world.
HCS: Has Horizon Christian lived up to your expectations both as an employee and a parent?
Mrs. Schlyper: Everything we had hoped and prayed for with our transition to Horizon has come to fruition. We have teachers that actively champion our children’s success. We have staff that are dedicated to the school and its mission statement, and who work unbelievably hard to keep our kids in the best learning environment possible. We have parents who partner with the school to cultivate beneficial and harmonious relationships. We could not be happier.
HCS: How has Horizon Christian helped your children adjust to their new school?
Mrs. Schlyper: From day one, the administrators, teachers, and aides all went out of their way to welcome our children and create a smooth transition for them. One of the best ways they did this was by simply getting to know our kids and taking the time to truly invest in who they are as individuals. Now, they walk into school every day feeling confident because they are secure in their place at Horizon.
HCS: What has been some of your most memorable moments at Horizon Christian so far?
Mrs. Schlyper: I loved touring both the 2nd grade country projects and 3rd grade state projects. I made it a point to stop by each child's work and ask at least one question.They were all so proud of their work, which was such a strong reflection of the dedication these teachers had to engaging them in this assignment. Their excited squeals when they saw me approaching, "Mrs. Schlyper! Come check out Sweden! And China! And North Dakota!" are happy memories I will always hold dear in my heart.
HCS: What has been your children's most memorable moments so far at Horizon Christian?
Mrs. Schlyper: Chapel! Getting to worship alongside friends and teachers/aides has been very meaningful for both of our kids. They always have a LOT to share around the dinner table on Chapel Wednesdays.
HCS: In your opinion what do students get at Horizon Christian that they will not get somewhere else?
Mrs. Schlyper: Class sizes that promote one-on-one learning, individual attention, and relationship building. My kids love coming to school not just because of their friends, but also because of a loving staff that makes them feel like they are at home. Staff that nurtures their faith! 
HCS: What would you tell a family/parent contemplating whether to enroll their student at Horizon Christian School?
Mrs. Schlyper: As someone who both works at the school and has children attending, I can say with confidence that this school is exactly the place where we want our children to learn and grow. The integrity of the staff and teachers, the dedication from all levels of employees, and the commitment to putting Christ first is front and center in all we do. I'm so grateful to be a part of the Horizon family. As an employee, I can confidently say that after seeing what goes on "behind the scenes," I am so thankful that my children attend this school. I don't think a day goes by that I don't proclaim, "I love the Horizon team!"
The Love of a Teacher
Students are loved and valued at Horizon Christian School. Today we received the comments below from one of our families and we wanted to share the incredible experience they had with their son’s kindergarten teacher, Ms. Wedin.
“Deacon, along with three fellow Horizon Christian School Kindergarteners, plays Tualatin Rec soccer. Ms. Wedin always asks about their games, which really means a lot to the boys. This past Saturday, I last-minute emailed her the time/location of their game. It was a long shot, but she had mentioned multiple times to let her know.
It was the sweetest surprise to see her walk up on Saturday to their game. It was so remarkably kind of her to spend her precious time off at a Kindergarten soccer game for well over an hour. Their smiles were contagious, and their squeals of surprise will fill my heart for years to come.
It’s hard to put into words how much her presence meant to our entire family. She’s a role model to our daughter, Hannah. She’s a friend to both me and Rian. But most importantly, she is a hero to Deacon. Thank you for hiring such quality individuals to teach our children. The positive impact she is making on my son’s life has been a huge blessing from the Lord.”
We so appreciate our wonderful teachers and staff who go above and beyond to love and support our Horizon Christian School community. Thank you, Ms. Wedin for leading the way and making a huge impact in the lives of your students. Thank you to the Schlyper family for sharing this wonderful story with us.
Meet the Lowe Family
Why are families flocking to Horizon Christian School? Learn more by reading about the Lowe Family who joined Horizon Christian School in January of 2019. What were they looking for and how did our school fulfill their wish list? With one student who already graduated in 2020 the Lowe’s still have a middle and high school student as part of our school community. Continue reading to find out more from their mom, Bryre Lowe, about what brought them to Horizon Christian and what keeps them here.
HCS: How and when did you first hear about Horizon Christian School?
Bryre: I heard about Horizon Christian from my dear friend Jay Lazaro (varsity high school volleyball coach) in 2017.
HCS: What about Horizon Christian sparked your interest?
Bryre: Jay had informed me that Horizon needed a volleyball coach. I received an email from the then Head of School, Dan Clements, who invited me to come tour the school and to meet with himself and Principal Scott Olson. That "meeting" turned out to be a GOD moment for me! I was so impressed with what Dan and Scott had to say about the school...what the school's culture was, how they focus on academics as well as offering several activities to get students and families involved, and the fact that Horizon Christian is a place where "Everybody is Somebody and JESUS is All!" I knew in my heart that this was a VERY special place, and the right fit for us.
HCS: Who are your children and what are their grade levels?
Bryre: My daughter Jordan graduated in 2020 and is now at Grand Canyon University. Ryan is a sophomore on the high school campus and Peyton is a 7th grader on the middle school campus
HCS: What were the top things you were looking for in a private Christian school and what 2-3 things made us stand out?
Bryre: Our standards for any school, we feel, are very reasonable. Our expectations are high, but sensible. The students must come first! We look for teachers and administrators who put the student's needs above all else...meaning with academic rigor and challenging curriculum, small class sizes that enhance one's ability to engage, and the utmost commitment to care for each individual's path towards success. Being faith-based, the added benefit of incorporating spiritual values, is an absolute WIN! All of this is achieved at Horizon Christian.
HCS: How has Horizon Christian School lived up to your expectations?
Bryre: Horizon Christian has gone above and beyond any expectations we could have asked for. We started with our oldest daughter transferring in as a Junior in high school two years ago. She graduated last Spring, during the COVID-19 pandemic. HCHS did everything in its power to make this season was special and memorable. They were able to have a senior "drive-in" prom, color wars, and an incredibly unique graduation ceremony. Nothing was going to keep Horizon Christian from supporting and honoring those Seniors!
This past fall of 2020, we knew it was time to transfer two of our other kids over to Horizon especially with the difference in experience from public schools and dealing with the COVID online trial. Our kids have not regretted this decision. They are receiving a good education and have loved the support they have experienced with great teachers, staff, and new friends. They feel loved, safe, and prepared for an ever-changing future.
HCS: Describe what has been the most impactful to your kids and family so far?
Bryre: The most impactful benefit, for each child, cannot be targeted to one thing. It is the experience as a whole. The growth in each of them has been encouraging. Horizon Christian helped supplement the values and teachings we implement at home. Our core lessons of "treating each other as you would like to be treated", "putting in the work" and "doing your best" will derive great outcomes and knowing that each of us is unique and headed on our own paths...just the way God intended. This school has helped fortify these same messages and reinforced our kids to feel confident and successful.
HCS: What do your children like best about Horizon?
Bryre: Our children love the teachers and staff! They also love the creative ways that the school has tried their best in getting kids involved and connected...especially during this pandemic time. Our 7th grader has enjoyed the activities, such as, time connecting at the park, cooking classes (via- zoom), and limited time in person and in class! Our sophomore has liked the classes offered, including, his dual-credit opportunities, and practicing and playing basketball, soccer, and baseball. 
HCS: What do you like best or what brings the greatest value to you from our school?
Bryre: We love the connection! The connection to a school where it feels like a family is what we like best! Because of the small class sizes, our kids are truly known and accepted for who they are. We feel that Horizon truly hears your concerns and wants to make a difference in your child's life. They will hold your child accountable while supporting them the best they can along the way.
HCS: What advice would you give families who are considering Horizon Christian School?
Bryre: Take a tour! Meet the people! You will not regret it! My kids have thrived...even through this unprecedented time. Ask the questions: Are there strong academics offered? Check! Will my child feel supported? Check! Will my child learn more about Christianity? You betcha! There is no perfect, utopian school, but this comes close!
Thank you, Lowe family, for sharing your enthusiasm for Horizon Christian School. We love our school families and the unity and partnership we have. If you are looking for some of these same things for your family, please do not hesitate to reach out to us!
Horizon Christian School
Meet the Sumner's
Horizon Christian School exists to glorify God through excellence in education, faith, and community. Our school’s mission could not be achieved without our “community” of supportive, passionate, and committed families. The Sumner family is just one such example. Read along to learn more about this family and their oldest child, Alexis, who is a sophomore and their youngest child Grant, who is in seventh grade.
How did you first hear about Horizon Christian School and what sparked your interest?
We first heard about Horizon Christian School back in 2009 when we were looking for a Christian kindergarten for our daughter to attend. A friend whose daughter had previously attended made the recommendation. Knowing Horizon Christian was a faith-based school stirred our interest as we wanted our children to be surrounded by Christian values and beliefs daily. We just knew after touring the campus and meeting the staff that it was the right fit for our family.
What were the top things you were looking for in a private Christian school?
When looking for private Christian schools our must-haves included small class sizes for more individualized instruction, students being able to have personal relationships with the teaching staff, teachers who love the Lord, the feeling of safety, above average academics, and the belief that every child is unique.
What does your son Grant like best about Horizon Christian Middle School?
Our son, Grant, loves his teachers and has taken tremendous pride in his academics. He feels like all of his teachers are always available and willing to help. He also has a sense of comfort knowing his classmates. He met his best friends in kindergarten.
What did Alexis like best about being a middle schooler at HCS?
Our daughter, Alexis, loved middle school. She played on three league championship volleyball teams, was active in Associate Student Body, and did the yearbook in 8th grade. Outdoor school and the Washington DC trip were her all-time favorite activities in middle school. Alexis still has relationships with the middle school teachers.
How is Alexis doing at Horizon Christian High School?
Now that she is has moved on to high school, she just continues to love it. She feels at home. Everyone knows everyone and what grade you are in does not matter. Alexis has opportunities to play varsity volleyball, participate in choir, and be active in the student government. She loves the all-nighter and color wars. There are many fun activities for the students to participate in.
How has Horizon Christian School lived up to your expectations?
HCS has surpassed our expectations which is why both of our children started in kindergarten and will graduate from Horizon Christian High School. We feel like the staff truly love our children and want what is best for them. Our children are flourishing academically and emotionally here. Horizon Christian has helped shape my children into the amazing young individuals that they are today. Our children are receiving a good education from a school they love. They feel welcome, heard, safe, and are in a loving Christian environment. Everyone is accepted for who they are. We could not ask for anything more.
What advice would you give families who are considering Horizon Christian School?
We would tell families if they are looking for a small, family-oriented, faith-based school that HCS is the place to be. Our children have thrived academically, socially, emotionally, and personally here. If we were to do it all over again, we would make the same decision by enrolling our children.
Thank you, Sumner Family, for sharing your Horizon Hawk journey with us. We are so thankful for our active and involved families who make Horizon Christian School home.
If you are looking for a “new school home”, call to schedule a visit and see for yourself.
Horizon Christian School
The Dockter Family
For over 40 years, Horizon Christian School has been serving families in SW Portland with a dynamic, Faith based educational experience. The Dockter family have two wonderful young ladies who began as Kindergarteners at Horizon Christian. Their oldest is a high school freshman this year, and the younger a middle schooler.
Enjoy this brief Q&A with the Dockters and why Horizon Christian School is a place; “Where Everybody is Somebody and Jesus is All.”
An interview with the Dockter Family:
HCS: How and when did you first hear about Horizon Christian School?
Dockters: We have attended Horizon Community Church for many years. That is how we heard about the school.
HCS: What were the top things you were looking for in a private Christian school and what 2-3 things made us stand out?
Dockters: When looking at schools for our two daughters, we were drawn to Horizon based on the school's strong emphasis on faith and family. We could tell immediately that Horizon was a good balance of both academics and character development. Both are so important to our family, and so we thought the school might be a good fit.
HCS: What were the top 3 to 5 things you were looking for in a private Christian school?
Dockters: We were looking for strong academics, small class sizes, and a good integration of faith and values.
HCS: What 2-3 things made Horizon Christian attractive to you?
Dockters: Walking on to the campus, we could feel the warmth and the "family" feel of the school. I noticed that the principal knew every student by name that she came in touch with. We also liked the 7 Smarts philosophy.
HCS: How has Horizon Christian School lived up to your expectations?
Dockters: We could not be happier with our experience at Horizon. Our daughters have been challenged academically, spiritually, and socially. Communication between the school and the families is informative and keeps everyone on the same page.
HCS: What do your children like best about Horizon Christian School?
Dockters: Our daughters love the feeling of close community that they experience at Horizon. Both have stated that it feels like a family, not just school. They both have teachers that they have connected with in a special way, that have spoken encouragement and affirmation into their lives during critical developmental times.
HCS: What do you like best or what brings the greatest value to you from Horizon Christian School?
Dockters: I love that character development is such an emphasis throughout the school. The banner themes each month reflect strong values and I appreciate this emphasis as much as I do the academic emphasis.
HCS: What advice would you give families who are considering Horizon Christian School?
Dockters: Set up a meeting with the principal and do a tour. Ask the questions that are important to your family values and see how they match up. Have your child shadow for a day and hear what they have to say. I think by doing all the above, you will be drawn to Horizon just like our family has been.
A BIG Thank You to the Dockter family for sharing some of their Horizon Christian story. Please contact us to schedule a tour. We would love to help you write your own chapter in our Horizon Christian story.
May God bless and guide you as you choose the school where your student will flourish.
Wishing you the best!
Horizon Christian School
Everything We Were Looking For & More
As a father of 3 Horizon students in the elementary, middle and high school, as well as both a local Pastor and Professional Christian Counselor, I can fully and enthusiastically endorse Horizon Christian School. Our family moved to the area 3 years ago and were seeking, first and foremost, a quality, Christian education for our kids. Secondly, we wanted them to have a wide variety of fun and challenging extra-curricular activities to round out their overall school experience. Thirdly, we wanted them to have a relationally safe and friendly environment where they were known, accepted and free to thrive as individuals, without the typical peer-pressures to conform, clique-up...or worse.
Horizon has proven to be all those things and more! The campus culture created by administration, faculty, and staff is biblically based, committed to our students’ best, and family-centered in every aspect. My wife and I were welcomed and encouraged to participate in chapels, field trips, sports events, fund-raisers, newcomer events, celebrations, etc. We have volunteered as speakers, coaches, chaperones, drivers, and been part of crews for set-up, clean-up, welcoming new families, or simply praying for the school. Because of her unique background and education, my wife began to substitute teach and, this year, joined the faculty as one of their middle school Bible teachers—a role she truly cherishes and is grateful to fulfill at Horizon!
Horizon is a school born out of the vision of a single, local church, and remains grounded and supported by their leadership and congregation. However, it has a wide appeal to local families, whether they are unchurched or involved in any one of a wide-variety of local churches and denominations. As deeply rooted as we are in another local church, we love being a family of “Hawks” and know our children are receiving the very best blend in their school experience—from academics, to activities, to friendships . . . all in a safe, fun, Jesus-centered environment! We could not ask for more!
