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The Heart Behind the Hallways

How Green Valley Christian School builds community in Henderson

Perched atop a hill at Sunset and Valle Verde, Green Valley Christian School has been a cornerstone of the Henderson community for more than four decades. What began as a small preschool in 1991 has flourished into a vibrant infant-through-12th-grade campus serving more than 850 students. For Executive Pastor Rebekah “Bekah” Withey, who has been part of the school for 25 years, the true magic of GV Christian School lies in its sense of belonging, a quality she says families feel the moment they step onto campus.

“My parents started the church in 1982, and I’ve been full time staff and part of this campus for a quarter-century,” Pastor Bekah shares. “I’ve watched the school grow from a single preschool classroom to a full K–12 program. Through it all, we’ve remained committed to one mission: Creating a safe, Biblical values-driven environment where students feel seen, known, and supported.”

Connection and community are woven into every aspect of campus life. GV Christian offers infant care starting at six weeks old, classrooms with large viewing windows, and small class sizes with a 15-to-1 student-teacher ratio in our elementary classrooms. Families often describe the environment as warm, nurturing, and deeply personal, qualities that have become hallmarks of school culture.

“Parents are entrusting us with their babies,” Pastor Bekah says. “Transparency matters. Community matters.”

GV Christian is a preparatory school where students consistently test two to three grade levels ahead. A Kinder-Prep program bridges early learners into the rigorous K–12 curriculum, and prospective students test into the program to ensure readiness.

“But we don’t just turn children away,” Pastor Bekah emphasizes. “If a student is eager to join, we connect families with tutors and resources to help them succeed. Our goal is always to support the whole student.”

Developing well-rounded young people is central to the school’s mission. GV Christian focuses on academics, spiritual growth, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills.

“In today’s world, students need more than strong grades,” Pastor Bekah notes. “They need the ability to communicate, collaborate, and build meaningful relationships. These skills are essential for success in life.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many families sought in-person learning options, leading to growth in enrollment. Yet, Pastor Bekah acknowledges the lasting impact of that period.

“Students across the country faced social and scholastic challenges after COVID. Most are academically capable but scholastically behind due to COVID and they need academic help and help rebuilding face-to-face relationship skills,” she explains.

GV Christian addresses this through small groups, student-led discussions, partnership projects, and chapel experiences designed to foster conversation and community. While technology is used strategically, non-digital interaction remains a priority.

“We want students to be prepared for college and careers not just on paper,” Pastor Bekah says, “but as confident, empathetic young adults.”

The school’s impact is evident in its alumni. Former students return to coach, volunteer, and teach, reinforcing the sense of continuity and community.

“Our alumni don’t just graduate and disappear,” Pastor Bekah says. “They come back for homecomings, games, and to mentor the next generation. That lifelong connection is something we cherish.”

Staff longevity mirrors this commitment, with many employees serving for 20 years or more. With 12 acres and more than 40 years atop the hill, GV Christian has grown alongside Henderson itself. Staff serve as chaplains with the Henderson Police Department, and students participate in community cleanups and service projects.

“We’ve been here all along,” Pastor Bekah says with a smile. “Being a part of Henderson means giving back to Henderson.”

As GV Christian prepares for another year of growth, the mission remains steadfast: providing a safe, academically strong, and community-driven environment for families seeking something more.

“If parents want a place where their children are truly seen and heard,” Pastor Bekah concludes, “this is the place. We’re committed to excellence, to values, and to raising well-rounded young people who are ready for the world.”

We want students to be prepared for college and careers not just on paper, but as confident, empathetic young adults.

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