History

A Christ-Centered Foundation

In 1966, Forest Lake Christian School began as the homeschool for Willard and Dr. Jean Schoellerman’s three young children. The family lived in a rural part of Nevada County without access to Christian education. The Schoellermans wanted their children to have a biblical education, and decided to homeschool their children.

Homeschooling was not well-known in 1966, and approval was needed from the California Secretary of State to operate. Being a credentialed elementary school teacher, Dr. Schoellerman was well-equipped to take on the role, and approval was granted. As the school grew, Dr. Schoellerman served as the Director of Education, and Mr. Schoellerman as the Business Manager of FLCS until their retirement in 2014.

From this humble beginning, FLCS is celebrating over 50 years of ministry to Christian families.

Continued Growth

The vision of Christ-centered education for the Schoellerman’s children quickly spread to other families within the community. Families from all over the neighborhood and neighboring cities requested to have their children taught, and the school began to grow. In 1970, Forest Lake Christian School was incorporated as an independent, non-profit corporation governed by a self-perpetuating board of directors. From these beginnings, God prospered the school, establishing a successful program that provides quality Christian education for students from preschool through twelfth grade.

In 1975, the Schoellermans donated a portion of their own land and built the first building for FLCS. Over the next few years, the building was expanded to accommodate enrollment growth. In 1980, a second building was constructed and developed over time. These buildings, currently the high school and middle school campus, include a gymnasium, soccer field, tennis court, play area, and baseball fields. Overall, the Schoellermans donated over sixteen acres of land to FLCS.

In 1996, FLCS purchased Combie Bible Church (currently Compass Church) and expanded into a second campus, the elementary school. Ten years later, in 2006, FLCS built a complex with additional classrooms, offices, restrooms, and a gymnasium on the grounds.

Looking to the Future

After 50 years, FLCS is well known for its family atmosphere, Biblical integration, and excellent education, all of which were the goals of Willard and Dr. Jean Schoellerman when they began homeschooling. The school's philosophy and objectives have remained consistent since the founding of FLCS and remain firmly grounded in Biblical principles. A positive atmosphere exists among the administration, faculty, parents, and students.

Forest Lake Christian School is dedicated to furnishing families with a quality academic program centered around the Word of God, intent on molding young lives mentally, physically, socially, and spiritually.