Choosing a school is one of the most significant decisions a parent will make for their child. With so much of a child’s day spent at school, it plays a crucial role in shaping their academic foundation and social skills, which are essential for their future.
The school a parent selects will influence not just their child’s education, but also their character, values, worldview and behavior.
In our local community, while there are many public schools available, some parents consider private schools to be a better option. One such institution is UMEI.
Although many local parents may be familiar with UMEI in Leamington, there are still common misconceptions about it. A prevalent belief is that UMEI is exclusively for Mennonites.
Formerly known as the United Mennonite Educational Institute, the school has since rebranded as UMEI Christian High School to better represent its diverse student body.
Today, only about one-third of the students come from a Mennonite background.
UMEI welcomes students from all faiths, or no faith background, who are interested in studying within a Christian school environment. With its small class sizes and a team of dedicated, expert teachers, the school is well-equipped to support students across a broad spectrum of academic abilities.
From Grade 9 onwards, the Guidance department works closely with each student and their family to ensure that course selections and classroom performance align with the student’s future goals.
There’s a common misconception that small schools offer fewer opportunities. However, at UMEI, small means more. The school fosters a culture of involvement and belonging, encouraging students to explore new interests. Over 90% of the student body participates in leadership roles through extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and robotics.
UMEI offers the only Enriched Robotics program in Southwestern Ontario, where students are able to take robotics courses all four years, and compete in FIRST Robotics competitions locally and provincially.
UMEI athletes compete in WECSSAA against other large schools, and more than two-thirds of the school participates in the Lightning Athletics program.
The Arts program is dynamic and engaging, with a vocal choir program that spans all 4 years led by Erin Armstrong, classes in guitar and music theory, courses in drama, and a vibrant visual art program.
Students at UMEI also experience a wide variety of off-campus education opportunities. In fact, the average UMEI student goes on over 40 field trips over their 4 years at UMEI. Small class sizes allows more flexibility to plan small classroom-related field trips as well as larger end-of-year trips to places like Ottawa, Chicago and New York City.
Additionally, small class sizes and a commitment to academic excellence mean that teachers go the extra mile to provide support and hands-on, dynamic lessons.
Teachers are available in their classrooms daily after school for an extra half hour Success Period, where students can seek extra help, attend “booster” sessions, or workshops customized to the changing needs of the student body.
Founded in 1945 UMEI is supported by three Mennonite churches – Faith Mennonite Church, Leamington United Mennonite Church and North Leamington United Mennonite Church.
The school’s Anabaptist roots mean that there is a focus on the life and teachings of Jesus, active peacemaking, service in the community, and seeing everyone as a child of God. All students take one religious studies course per year, and attend a 15-minute chapel daily.
As a private school, UMEI is inspected every other year by the Ministry of Education which allows the school to award an OSSD upon graduation. Run by a Board of Directors, UMEI receives no government funding so all costs are covered by tuition, fundraising and generous donors like the HL Tiessen Foundation, the three supporting churches, and many corporate sponsors.
And it’s thanks to these generous donors and sponsors that the school has been able to keep the tuition affordable for most families. For those who need assistance, there is a robust and confidential tuition assistance and scholarship program. The school aims to ensure that it is attainable for all students in Essex County.
It’s not too late to enroll at UMEI. Students may transfer up until the third week of classes in September; however, class selection may be limited at that time. Families are encouraged to reach out as soon as possible to ensure the course selection that they desire.
For families who are interested in exploring the UMEI option, contact Chani Wiens, Director of Enrollment & Community Engagement, at admissions@umei.ca to set up a campus tour at your convenience.
Mrs. Wiens is available evenings and weekends to suit the needs of your family. You can also text her at 226-346-6735.
Contact UMEI
Website: www.umei.ca
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/umeischool
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umei_chs/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@umeichristian
All photos provided by UMEI