PATRIOT LIFE

the elementary
experience

one school,
three locations

Since the inception of our elementary program in 1974, thousands of students have benefited from our commitment to teach from a Biblical worldview. We have two locations in El Cajon and one in the South Bay.

educating the whole child

A quality education includes more than academics. Through physical education, choral music, intramural sports and band, our students develop the skills of teamwork, healthy competition, sportsmanship, and musical creativity.  Instruction in technology skills prepares them for the future in fulfilling God’s calling.

The students’ confidence in their faith is increased through chapel services, ministry to others, and classroom instruction.

academics

Teaching a Biblical worldview in school begins with dedicated Christian educators. Integrating biblical principles into all curriculum, teachers emphasize daily that God is Truth and that His Word is the primary source of knowledge. Eliminating the confusion about who we are and why we are here paves the way for a life of assurance and devotion to God.

CHAPEL

Elementary chapel services hold a central place in fostering spiritual growth and a sense of community among students. These weekly gatherings provide a special time for students to come together in worship and prayer. Often featuring guest speakers or performances, chapel services offer age-appropriate messages that resonate with young hearts and minds.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION & SPORTS

Students participate in PE class and have the option to be involved in our sports programs, including flag football, cheer, basketball, and soccer.

field trips

Field trips offer hands-on and experiential learning, allowing our students to see real-world applications of what they learn in school. These experiences build independence, foster curiosity and social development, and build an appreciation for nature and history.

parent-teacher fellowship

Parent-Teacher Fellowship (PTF) promotes fellowship among the parents and teachers, and assists the school with events like the Fall Festival, Dads & Donuts, Moms & Muffins, and more.

dress code

Christian Unified Schools of San Diego desires to create an educational atmosphere that maximizes learning. Modesty, moderation, neatness, cleanliness, and gender distinction are the overriding principles of the CUSSD uniform policy. The students’ dress should reflect pride in their school and respect for themselves.

CES EAST CAMPUS

On the Shadow Mountain Community Church campus, along with Christian Jr/Sr High School
2100 Greenfield Drive, El Cajon

Transitional kindergarten through 6th grade

CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Large campus, bustling with church & school activity
  • Convenient for families with junior high & high school siblings
  • 500+ students, with multiple classes per grade
  • Kindergarten & First Grade classes are located on our junior campus (click to view map) on the west side of Greenfield Drive
  • PRINCIPAL DONITA LONDON

    Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, Mrs. London grew up in Ohio and Missouri and moved to California after high school. She loves to travel and spend time with her family. She and her husband have three grown children and two grandchildren. They love the Rocky Mountains of Colorado and beaches anywhere. They are self-proclaimed "foodies" and experiment with new recipes on the weekends. She loves to read and walk.

    Mrs. London began teaching in 1985. After nine years, she took time off to raise her family and then started back in 2006. She taught at Christian Unified from 2012 to 2016 and again from 2021, becoming principal in 2024.

    Mrs. London chooses to work for Christian Unified because she can share her faith openly and point families and students toward a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. All subjects are taught from a Biblical Worldview to show them the beautiful plan God has for their lives.

    So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

    CES WEST CAMPUS

    On the Campus of El Cajon Wesleyan Church
    211 S. Third Street, El Cajon, CA

    kindergarten through 6th grade

    CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Elementary-only campus with large playground & athletic fields
  • Close to the Christian Jr/Sr High campus for convenient drop-offs
  • 200+ students, with one teacher for most grades
  • Intimate, family atmosphere
  • PRINCIPAL MARLA HESTER

    Originally from North Carolina, Mrs. Hester spent 20+ years as a teacher and principal in Christian schools in Florida, receiving a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Stetson University. To her, being a principal is not just a career but a calling. Since coming to Christian Unified in 2017, she has felt blessed every day with the opportunity to do what God has called her to do—help children establish a foundation built upon the rock of Jesus Christ that will guide them, their families, and communities for generations to come.

    christian south

    470 L Street, Chula Vista, CA

    4-year-old kindergarten through 8th grade

    CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS:

  • A single campus for grades K-4 through 8th.
  • Serves families living in the South Bay area of San Diego County.
  • Specializing in Early Childhood Education since 1984.
  • Four- and five-year-olds read and have fun while they grow.
  • K4 children must turn four by December 31.
  • Regular Day (8:00-3:00) and Full Day (7:00-5:30) options.
  • PRINCIPAL brenda sniff

    Working at Christian South is a blessing every day. I have the privilege of encouraging our students and witnessing them grow into the young men and women that Jesus has created them to become. Working alongside fellow believers, we are empowered to achieve more together than we ever could on our own.

    "But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 19:14

    IN MEMORY OF OUR FOUNDER

    It is with sadness that we share that the co-founder of our school district, Dr. Beverly LaHaye, passed away on Sunday, April 14. She was 94 years old.

    Beverly was a faithful follower of Jesus Christ all the days of her life, and God used her in extraordinary ways to make a difference in the world around her. Along with her husband Dr. Tim LaHaye, she worked to establish Christian Unified Schools at a time when Christian education was in its infancy. She had a vision to meet the need for God-honoring curriculum and teachers who modeled Christlikeness to the students in their care, and she worked tirelessly to that end.

    In addition to her influence on our school district, Beverly was also the author of many books, the founder of Concerned Women for America, and a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was a faithful and treasured member of Shadow Mountain Community Church, where she was honored recently during the GirlTime women’s event. As the audience stood to applaud, Beverly pointed upward, giving all of the glory to the God she served.

    ENGLISH PROFICIENCY MINIMUMS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

    GradeTOEFL JrTOEFLiTEPDuolingo
    6700NA3NA
    7750NA3NA
    8800503.380-85
    985050-603.385-90
    10NA60-703.590-95
    11NA70+3.895+

    research links & INformation

    Web Research Links:

    Grolier Online (includes Encyclopedia Americana)
    User ID: christianhs
    Password: patriot

    EBSCO Host Research Databases – Full-text Periodical and Reference Articles Online
    User ID: christianhs
    Password: patriot2019!

    SIRS Knowledge Source – Periodical articles online
    User ID: CA3906
    Password: PATRIOT

    San Diego County Library Website
    Enter library card number; enter last four digits or phone number for PIN or, for newer users, make your own PIN.