» What do Mennonites believe?

Mennonites share essential core beliefs with Christians of Catholic, Protestant, and Evangelical persuasions. Mennonites believe that Jesus is the full embodiment of God’s love, sent to bring reconciliation to a broken world; that the Bible is inspired by God and is central to faith and living out God’s will; and that God offers grace and forgiveness to humankind based on genuine faith instead of goodness. As a part of faith, Mennonites value service to those in need over the pursuit of wealth, fame, or power. Go to Mennonite Church USA for more information.

» Do you have to be Mennonite to attend WMS?

No. Students at Western Mennonite School attend a variety of churches. In 2008-09 WMS students represented 72 churches from more than 22 denominations.

» Are Bible classes and chapel attendance required?

Yes. Daily Bible classes are required for every grade. Students attend chapel twice each week.

» Does WMS use curriculum produced by Christian publishers?

No. Western’s combination of Christian teachers and secular textbooks provides students with a solid foundation and the ability to think critically and evaluate what they learn. Teachers share their faith in the classroom and help students compare Biblical thinking to the culture around them.

» Is WMS accredited?

Western is fully accredited and meets the requirements of the Northwest Association of Accredited Schools, the Oregon Department of Education criteria for private schools, and the Mennonite Education Agency.

» Does WMS have college credit classes?

Yes. In 2008-09 college credit is offered for pre-calculus, calculus, and psychology.

» What educational support services does WMS offer?

Western has a Learning Specialist as well as staff tutors. For a complete description of the services available, please see Academic Resources & Support.

» What are the options for playing a sport not offered at WMS?

Western Mennonite School offers boys’ and girls’ soccer, girls’ volleyball, boys’ and girls’ basketball, boys’ baseball, and girls’ softball. Students wishing to participate in any other sport are welcome and encouraged to do so in their home district.

» Does WMS require uniforms?

No. Western does not require uniforms, but does have a dress code based on simplicity, modesty, decency, and propriety.

» Is financial aid available?

Yes. Please see Student Grants for more information.

» How many students are in each class?

Western strives to maintain a student/teacher ratio of 16:1.

» Is Western’s calendar similar to the public school system?

Yes. Western’s calendar generally aligns with Salem-Keizer Public Schools.

» What is the percentage of Western’s students who attend college upon graduation?

More than 85% of graduates attend college the first year after graduation, while an additional 9% commit to a year or more of missions or service before attending college.