S
ince its formation in 1987, Jubilee Christian School
has fostered lifelong learners in children from
kindergarten to sixth grade using an integrated
curriculum from a Christian worldview. Now, 30
years later, it is celebrating successes and continuing its
course of action to teach young minds through an integrated
approach.
“Mrs. Mary Wolling was Jubilee’s first principal,” says
Michelle Strauna, Director of Education and Curriculum.
“In 1986, she, along with several parents, discussed the idea
of an integrated teaching style. In September 1987, Natalie
Thomas and five kindergarteners became the first classroom
at our school and met at Beverly Heights Presbyterian
Church in Mt. Lebanon. It didn’t take long for the children’s
families to start talking to others about the success of the
integrated curriculum academically and spiritually, and its
ability to instill a love of learning. The rest, as they say, is
history.”
Beginning in 1988 through 1993, one grade level was
added each year as needed, reaching its current status of a
kindergarten through sixth grade school.
“Mrs. Wolling served as both principal and teacher of first
and second grades during those beginning years,” explains
Anna Booher, a fifth and sixth grade teacher at Jubilee for
the past 15 years. “She nurtured this school with everything
she had and we are so grateful for her time, effort and
dedication.”
“She nurtured this school
with everything she had and
we are so grateful for her
time, effort and dedication.”
In September 2002, Jubilee moved to the education
wing of Mt. Lebanon Evangelical Presbyterian Church
and increased staff to support a growing enrollment and
expanded curriculum. During the past decade, it has
maintained the integrated style of teaching and expanded to
include new classes, workshops and programs for students.
“We have introduced engaging components into the kids’
course work, such as Lego robotics, Junior Achievement
programs, music, and ‘Mad Science’ as part of our electives,”
says Strauna. “We also have Snapology as part of our daily
curriculum and a running club to expand after-school
offerings.”
To mark its growth and success, Jubilee Christian
School held a gala to celebrate accomplishments and the
30th anniversary with a special dinner at LeMont on Mt.
Washington.
Continued on next page >
BETHEL PARK
❘
WINTER 2018
25