Washington Co., WI – Ozaukee Christian School (OCS), 1214 Hwy 33, West Bend, shares the journey of the Swanson family to the Germantown area as they became part of the OCS family.
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Following God’s lead, Chelsey and Aaryn Swanson moved south from Iron Mountain, MI, to Wisconsin, where they would have two sons.
First came Lincoln, an outgoing and tenderhearted little boy, as his mother describes him. By the time Aaryn and Chelsey had to choose where Lincoln would attend preschool, COVID-19 lockdowns were sweeping the nation.
The Swansons were wary that public schools in the era of COVID could crush their friendly preschooler’s spirit. Pregnant with their second child and with no local support system, Chelsey courageously homeschooled Lincoln.
A homeschool co-op for preschoolers gave Lincoln a much-needed social outlet. When Noah was born, the Swansons learned to adjust to accommodate both boys’ needs.
At three, Noah began preschool with a church program, and the Swansons recognized that Noah’s personality was very different from his brother’s. Chelsey prepared to homeschool Noah for 4K. But Lincoln’s bold personality led her and Aaryn to pray for a new school for Lincoln’s first-grade year.
Ozaukee Christian School was a bit of a commute for the Germantown family, but Chelsey suggested they “just check it out” when she saw there was an enrollment information night.
They toured the school and spoke to the teachers. By the time they left, they felt God saying it was the right school not only for Lincoln but for Noah, too.
Now the boys have finished their first year at OCS, Lincoln in first and Noah in 4K.
Chelsey says, “It never felt like we were ‘the new family.’ Finding a school that feels like family is huge.”
Chelsey cherishes the time she spent homeschooling, but she says OCS has helped her see other sides of her sons.
“Everyone is there, not only to support but to spiritually fulfill your children,” she said. “I’ve seen such spiritual growth this year, especially in Lincoln. He really spread his wings.”
The Swansons are looking forward to returning to OCS in the fall, with a vision for coming alongside new families to encourage them.
