History

The West Side Tree

Beginning in the 1880s, saplings named Crosby, Rehoboth, Alpine, and Pine were planted with conviction that a sturdy tree would grow from these humble beginnings. One and two room Christian schools were opened on Crosby Street and Alpine Avenue by Dutch settlers on the west side of Grand Rapids. These settlers were concerned that the schools their children attended endorse the faith values of both their homes and churches. “Train up a child in the way he should go (Proverbs 22:6)“ has been the guiding principle ever since.

From these humble beginnings a vigorous tree grew and flourished. For over 120 years the tree has spread its branches and now it embraces children of many races, cultural backgrounds, and belief systems.

The West Side Tree offers many opportunities for learning and enrichment that enhance the effectiveness of Christcentered, life-changing education. Choirs, bands, orchestras, classes in art, writing, and drama prepare children to excel aesthetically and academically as they discover God's fingerprints in these areas.

The athletic program includes soccer, basketball, baseball, and other sports to develop social skills, confidence, and self-esteem. Children are given reasons to laugh, the will to win, and the courage to lose.

Believing that even the very young mind can benefit from excellent education with a Christian perspective, preschool classes are offered. Special needs children and those with learning difficulties receive help they need to reach their full potential.

The West Side Tree has a firm foundation, exciting traditions, and a focused vision for the future: to enable, empower, and encourage all students to use their God-given talents to serve the God they love.