International students who choose Liberty Christian School in Huntington Beach, California, embark on a transformative educational journey that extends far beyond academics. For over 50 years, our school has been committed to providing exceptional Christian education, and our I-20 program—now accepting students from 7th through 12th grade—creates unique opportunities for global students to experience American Christian education while preparing for college success.
1. Small Class Sizes Create Personalized Learning Experiences
One of the most significant advantages for international students at Liberty Christian School is our commitment to small class sizes, with a goal of maintaining a 15:1 student-to-teacher ratio. This intentional approach to class size creates an environment where every student is known personally by name, and teachers can adapt their instruction to meet individual learning needs.
Our teachers understand that English proficiency varies among students, even though Liberty Christian School requires effective English communication skills for admission and does not provide ESL services. Small classes allow teachers to check for understanding more frequently, rephrase explanations when needed, and ensure international students grasp material before moving forward.
2. Rigorous College-Prep Curriculum Prepares Students for University Success
International students come to the United States seeking quality education that will prepare them for admission to prestigious American universities. Liberty Christian School delivers this preparation through our rigorous, college-prep curriculum based on California State Standards and the a-g requirements of the University of California system.
Our 7th-12th grade academics incorporate diverse curriculum publishers including Bob Jones, Savvas, McGraw Hill, and Positive Action. Using a project-based learning model within an eight-block schedule, we encourage students to work in groups to design, develop, and solve real-world problems. This approach helps them build critical skills like creativity, collaboration, and perseverance in facing challenges—exactly the skills American universities value most.
3. Dual Enrollment Provides College Credit During High School
One of Liberty Christian School's most valuable offerings for international students is our emphasis on dual enrollment opportunities. While we offer AP options if students want them, we've found that dual enrollment provides bigger benefits for most students.
Through dual enrollment, high school students earn actual college credits that transfer to universities, giving them a head start on their undergraduate degrees. This opportunity proves particularly valuable for international students who can:
- Experience American college coursework while still in the supportive high school environment
- Reduce the total time and cost needed to complete their bachelor's degrees
- Demonstrate college readiness to university admissions officers
- Build confidence in their ability to succeed at the university level
4. Individualized Academic Planning Meets Unique Student Goals
International students arrive at Liberty Christian School with diverse educational backgrounds, goals, and timelines. Some plan to complete all four years of high school before applying to universities, while others have more accelerated plans. Our ability to personalize each student's academic experience sets us apart.
This flexibility extends to all students. Our Academic Dean helps international students select courses that align with their college major interests, ensures they meet both California graduation requirements and university admission standards, and provides guidance about American college application processes.
5. Biblical Worldview Integration Provides Moral Foundation
While international students come from diverse religious backgrounds, many families specifically choose Liberty Christian School because they value the character development and moral foundation that comes from Christian education. Our Biblical worldview isn't just taught in Bible class—it's integrated throughout all subjects.
This integration means students learn California state standards and university-preparatory content, but they examine everything through the lens of Christian values and principles. Students explore questions about purpose, ethics, truth, and meaning alongside their academic studies.
For international students, this approach provides several benefits:
- Clear moral framework during the challenging teenage years
- Exposure to Christian values and Western religious traditions
- Character development alongside academic achievement
- Community built on shared values of kindness, integrity, and service
6. Athletic Opportunities Build Confidence and Community
Starting in 4th grade and continuing through 12th grade, Liberty Christian School students have opportunities to participate in athletics. For high school students, this includes boys' cross country, basketball, and volleyball, as well as girls' volleyball. Elementary and middle school students can participate in flag football, basketball, volleyball, and soccer.
Our state-of-the-art gymnasium features a premier basketball court and double volleyball court, offering a private, controlled indoor environment where teams can practice and compete. Unlike large schools where only the most talented athletes make teams, Liberty's smaller size means more students who want to participate can join teams and develop their skills.
For international students who may not pursue professional athletics or athletic scholarships, participation still builds confidence, teaches time management, develops leadership skills, and creates lasting friendships. These experiences contribute to the well-rounded education that prepares students for success beyond high school.
7. Extracurricular Activities Encourage Exploration and Growth
Beyond athletics, Liberty Christian School offers numerous clubs and activities at all grade levels that help international students explore interests, develop talents, and build community connections. Available options include:
- Speech and Debate Club
- Chess Club
- YouTube Club
- Creative Writing Club
- Student Government (at elementary, junior high, and high school levels)
- Band and Choir
- Sign Language classes
- Project-based learning opportunities
- Entrepreneurship experiences
- Digital Marketing courses
These extracurricular activities allow international students to discover passions they might not have explored in their home countries. A student who joins debate club develops critical thinking and public speaking skills while building confidence using English in competitive settings. A student who participates in student government learns about American democratic processes and develops leadership skills. Read our blog about the importance of extracurricular activities here.
The variety of offerings means students can find activities matching their interests, whether they're academically oriented, creatively focused, or leadership-driven. Participation in these activities also strengthens college applications by demonstrating well-rounded development and community engagement.
8. WASC Accreditation Ensures High-Quality Education
Liberty Christian School has been continuously accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) since 1994. For international students and their families, this accreditation provides important assurance about educational quality.
WASC accreditation means Liberty Christian School has clearly defined educational objectives appropriate to our mission, has established conditions under which achievement can reasonably be expected, demonstrates we're accomplishing our goals substantially, and is organized, staffed, and supported to continue doing so. This rigorous evaluation process happens regularly, ensuring we maintain high standards.
For international students, attending a WASC-accredited school means receiving a nationally recognized education that American colleges and universities respect. The accreditation validates that Liberty Christian School provides genuine college preparation, not just claims it.
9. Supportive Community Helps Students Navigate Cultural Transitions
Perhaps the most important factor in international student success at Liberty Christian School is our caring, supportive community. Even before our 50-year history mentions that students and families experience a welcoming environment focused on helping each person thrive.
Our staff is dedicated to providing students and families with a Christ-centered environment, exceptional academics, and abundant opportunities for personal growth. For international students far from home, this supportive atmosphere makes all the difference in their adjustment and ultimate success.
Teachers know each student personally and notice when someone is struggling—whether academically, socially, or emotionally. The small school environment means international students aren't anonymous. They're known, valued, and supported by adults who care about their success.
10. Cultural Integration Within Christian Values
International students need more than just academic preparation—they need help navigating American culture, social norms, and daily life in Southern California. Liberty Christian School provides this cultural integration naturally through daily interactions, school events, and community participation.
Throughout the year, students participate in numerous school events that introduce American traditions and create shared memories:
- Get Acquainted Picnic to start the year
- Fall Palooza with activities and live music
- Spirit Week and Homecoming celebrations
- Christmas Party with traditional games
- Carnival and Silent Auction
- Sophomore/Junior Retreat at Palomar Christian Conference Center
- 8th Grade Washington D.C. Trip
- High School Prom at unique venues
- Senior Trip to Hawaii
These events help international students understand American school culture while creating opportunities for friendship and belonging. They experience American traditions alongside classmates, building cultural competence that serves them throughout their time in the United States.
11. Preparing for Life Beyond Graduation
Over 95% of Liberty Christian School graduates pursue higher education, with about 50% attending four-year universities. Our graduates have gone on to respected universities nationwide, many earning competitive scholarships and military appointments.
For international students, this track record demonstrates that Liberty Christian School effectively prepares students for American university admission and success. The combination of rigorous academics, individualized planning, and character development creates graduates ready to thrive in college environments.
Beyond college placement statistics, international students leave Liberty Christian School with skills that serve them throughout life: critical thinking, cultural competence, English proficiency, Christian values, leadership experience, and confidence in their abilities. These attributes prove valuable regardless of whether students remain in the United States or return to their home countries after completing their education.
Making the Decision
International families considering Liberty Christian School for 7th-12th grade students should understand that we are certified as an F school by the United States Department of Homeland Security's Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and issue I-20 forms to accepted students.
Requirements include effective English communication skills, full-time enrollment, payment of tuition in American currency, and arrangement of host family housing (Liberty does not provide homestay services). Students must be high school aged, enrolling in 9th-12th grades only, though we recently expanded to accept 7th grade students as well.
For more information about our international student program, academic offerings, or to schedule a tour of our Huntington Beach campus, contact Liberty Christian School at (714) 842-5992. Our staff is ready to answer questions about how Liberty Christian School can provide the quality American Christian education your student deserves.