We love bethany! My son started here pre-k summer camp and now hes going to be in 2nd grade. Bethany has become our family/community. read more

Bethany School - Elementary Schools Near Me - Long Beach, California

Leaving Bethany School was the most rewarding decision for our family. Many parents are naturally driven to private schools given the perception of superiority, impression of additional resources as compared to public schools, and the idea that teachers are better trained/educated. However, this is far from the case at Bethany School. Fortunately, we didn't waste too much time there and have successfully moved on to better opportunities for our children. Our kids are now happy, thriving and actually being challenged. As a parent, it is in your best interest to strongly consider the public schools within the Long Beach system. The LBUSD has staff with bachelor's degrees at a minimum, many with master's degrees/other secondary level education and ALL are fully credentialed (not the case at Bethany). In addition, LBUSD focuses on emotional intelligence, empathy, diversity, equity, inclusion and welcomes/accepts kids that learn differently. Bethany School admittedly prefers "obedient," cookie cutter kids due to their "limited resources and staff training." Although, these repeated statements were concerning given the high cost of tuition and continuous (often daily) pleas for donations. Bethany School prides itself on being "Future Focused," however, the curriculum, operations and staff training do not support this statement. For example, the utilization of "Clip Charts" as a daily behavioral management tool is widely known to be outdated and the theorized benefits have been refuted by studies and research (perform a simple Google search on the "Clip Chart Method" for your own assessment). Also, the end of the week "prize boxes" (and other extrinsic motivators) at Bethany are outdated and actually cause more harm than good to children. Prize boxes decrease a child's long-term ability to develop intrinsic motivation, an organic love for learning and the natural desire to be kind and compassionate. I question how Bethany labels such deeply outdated tactics as "Future Focused." In addition, there was an over-emphasis on the recitation of Bible verses and other religious content that created a gap with what the kids should be learning. In fact, many parents needed other educational content to supplement the Bethany School curriculum to ensure that their students would remain on track. Overall, we were thoroughly disappointed by the pipe dream that was sold to us via their website and during many on-campus tours, especially given the amount of tuition that we were paying. This has been an eye-opening experience about the educational system in the city of Long Beach. Private schools in LB, whether religious/Montessori/other are not superior, do not challenge kids, do not welcome kids with learning differences and have an alarming lack of emphasis on emotional intelligence (which we all know should truly be the focus of the future). Choose your children's education wisely. Don't ignore the red flags. Pass on Bethany. read more

This school was great until Pastor Cook left. New management is turning Bethany into a MAGA school pushing out all of the "Diverse" students it has through poor last minute communication about tuition raises and without communicating how increased tuition will benefit the school. Seems the new team is looking to make the school appeal to a certain type of group preferably white higher income. Very sad to see such a great school. The teachers are fantastic and by far the schools best asset but I fear they too will fall victim to the changes being made. read more

My kindergartner has attended the last 3yrs. Now my 2yr old is enrolled in preschool, joining her big sister, and my wife and I couldn't be happier with their education. Bethany has been the only school where the anxiety of dropping off my little ones is nonexistent. The devoted staff is cheerful, nurturing, diligent and above all Christ-centered. The kids pray, which often helps when they're assigned their homework. Iron definitely sharpens iron at Bethany. The curriculum is challenging and individually focused. We reluctantly tried another private school closer to work but decided to return once we noticed the higher standard set by Bethany. The other school's lack of parent involvement and feedback just wasn't what we were used to. Growing up in the LBUSD, I sometimes found private schools to be a little culturally sheltered in my search for the "perfect" school but this is another area where Bethany rises and shines like their "Daddy~day" donuts. The student body and staff truly reflect Long Beach diversity. read more

Bethany School - Elementary Schools Near Me - Long Beach, California

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We also love Bethany school, my two granddaughters attend, one in preschool and the other was in preschool and pre-K and now in Kindergarten. The staff is caring and amazing, the Director, now Principal is also amazing. Our granddaughters are not only being well cared for, they are also leaning about Jesus while being well educated. We Love Bethany!! read more

This school is not about diversity, inclusion or Godliness.. They only hire female white teacher. No men no people of color. My son attended middle school here a few years back and after I conplained about a teacher to the principle she accused my son of sexual harrassment. She told me my son snapped a girls bra and that was sexual harassment. I immediately took my son out. This principle was willing to ruin my sons life because I complained about one of her friends. I really hope they have changed. read more

My sons have been at Bethany for a year now in upper grades. They both play JV basketball and do Spanish and music weekly. They've made great friends and enjoy going to school. We have loved the overnight field trips we have attended as a family and feel welcome by the teachers and parents. Academically they have always been strong in LBUSD but despite this they had to take a few months to catch up to Bethany's level. They are now back to a 3.5 and 4.0 GPA and we are very happy with the grades they are getting and the challenges. We have gotten to know many of the teachers who are very dedicated and kind. The student body at Bethany is very diverse which is important to us. We're very glad we made the decision to come to Bethany. read more

My child has attended this school since Pre-School. I wanted my child to attend a christian school. Bethany exceeded my expectations from the first time I walked onto the campus. If you want your child to attend a christian school, in a loving environment and that excels in education, this is the school for you and your child(ren). read more

Bethany has been such a blessing to our family! Our son started at Bethany School in Kindergarten and was there through 3rd grade....We were not set on sending our son to a private school versus a public school but we had heard such great things we decided to enroll him and it has been one of the best decisions ever. We left during his 4th grade year for several reasons but we came back this year for 5th grade because there was just no comparison! He had a lot of friends and did well in 4th grade but was begging to go back to Bethany. The year my son went to another school taught us the grass is definitely not greener and Bethany was our home. The teachers are amazing with care, support and dedication to each child's unique personality and learning styles. I consider all my sons teachers friends. They have always been in frequent contact with updates and ideas to help him where he needed it. Every single one from Kinder up. A true partnership in the growth and education of our son. The kids have access to technology, computer lab, Meet The Master's Art program, PE with Coach Dorsey who is dearly loved by all, Chapel, Student Store etc... These are in addition to what is just happening day to day in the classroom in these areas. Regarding technology, kids were watching inappropriate videos during Friday Fundays at the school he went to in 4th grade (not Bethany)....things you can't unteach your kids....I only know because my son told me but it was never addressed or caught by the staff......that DEFINITELY will not happen at Bethany. They are on it and have through restrictions. They teach the kids appropriate behavior across the board and call it out when there is inappropriate behavior. Some parents might not be open to hearing anything bad about their child but that is what is wrong with the world these days. Since I see it has been suggested that the good reviews are all from teachers at the school, I will clarify for all that I am not a teacher at Bethany. I only see 2 reviews by teachers, because I know them all very well, and they both have children at Bethany so it seems fair that they could also provide a review without being accused. One more thing to add. The Administration is also amazing! Mrs. Hill (Principal), Mrs. Golden (Vice Principal) and Miss Frankie (Office Manager) are all amazing and have worked so hard to make things happen this year! I also can't leave out Miss Pam who is dearly loved by all as well! The year my son was not at Bethany he would ask if we could drive through the pick up line at 3 o'clock so he could see Miss Pam. If that doesn't say it all I don't know what does. read more

My daughter enjoyed their pre k summer program this past summer. However, our kindergarten experience was a disaster. If your child isn't a robot with perfect behavior avoid this school. Principal supports inappropriate documented and stated treatment toward your child by teachers. The principal will insult and take offense to valid concerns asked by parents. Communication is horrible and expectations of obedience from kindergarteners is favored over the subpar curriculum. They are not honest or open minded. Emails misinterpreted. Sabotaging and inconsistent behavior from the teacher and staff. I do not recommend this school. read more

Years and Money wasted here ! The teachers are NOT loving and friendly at all ,when bought up to principle she does nothing. Complaints have been made over and over again about the same teachers yet you still see the same outcome.No extracurricular activities. I'm so sadden about the language and the attitudes that these private school teachers have . They will complain about your kid over and over again if your student does not fit into the SIT STILL PERFECT CHILD.You pray with your students and then talk badly about them to other teachers and parents ? Please pay attention to all the RED flags ! Also my friend wrote reviews and the school staff was sending her messages !And they would also have the staff go write reviews isn't that UNETHICAL! So much better PRIVATE schools nearby !!! Do your RESEARCH!!! Wish me and my 3 kids would of left sooner. read more

Constantly challenging my son and nephew. Yes a bit pricy. But what they put into my kid is worth me working 2 jobs

We love Bethany and the teachers are amazing! Worth every penny! I have two boys who are 1st and 2nd grade there and we have been there since Preschool. Cannot even begin to say how amazing Bethany is and how lucky we are! God bless! read more

I loved Bethany School when my daughter went there from 3rd-8th grade. She is now in the 10th grade and doing exceptionally well. Bethany School is a loving, caring and nurturing environment. To this day i talk to some of her former teachers. They helped to create a loving, caring, respectful and God fearing young lady. We both have made life long friendships. Thank you Bethany School. read more

This school is THE BEST. The teachers are so so loving and the school is so organized. Makes learning fun for the littles. Great activities and memories are made here. Flexible times and schedules. Staff totally works with you. Can't say enough great about it! So grateful I found it! read more

This is so old.. I should have done this years ago.. I hope there is no enrollment for this place. My son went there from pre school and kindergarten and the summer program for 3 years. Best thing, summer program. My sons kindergarten teacher would call my husband on a daily basis to complain about my son. I told the teacher to please call me if there was an issue. She refused and said the husband rules the household. Ah huh??? What are we in the 50's??? Then asked if I would agree to have the pastor "SPANK" my son??? Ah huh??? Again??? What ??? I told his teacher that we discipline our son at home, and don't ever touch my him. I went to pastor Cook told him and wrote a letter. He refused to do anything about it. We removed our son from that disgusting so-called Cristian school... I just found out Pastor Cook was let go... gosh I can't imagine why? Yuk! I would never give this place a dime... public school has been great for my son!!! read more

Dear parents looking for a school for their kids,  I will give it to you straight: Bethany is an awesome school!!!  My kids' teacher said that there were some negative yelp reviews and they were hoping some parents could help give a fuller picture of Bethany school. Well, that was like lighting the fuse on a stick of dynamite, because I'm a huge fan of Bethany school. Why do I love Bethany school? Let me count the ways. #1: First things first: As a father, I try in my stumbling way to bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord at home, but I will take all the help I can get! Bethany is a Jesus place. By that, I mean there is a spirit of humility there. There is a spirit that says "I've blown it. I cannot stand before a Holy God on my own. Salvation is of the Lord! I'm giving up trying to achieve righteousness before the great white throne of God via my own works." This humility brings peace and freedom. It's OK if the world writes you off, calls you nasty names, and hates you...because the world is not your ultimate judge. Your ultimate judge is God...and since He's also your Dad, you'll be fine in the end. Now THAT is what I call true peace. No, this doesn't mean Jesus people just run amok because their heavenly Father will fix everything, any more than literal children run amok because their natural fathers who love them are going to fix everything. If you are a parent, you know that is not how it works! There are consequences for disobedience, and rewards for obedience. But when looking ahead to the final analysis, to that great judgment day, to our ultimate standing before a perfectly holy God who dwells in light unapproachable, I want my kids to learn about the One who by Himself purged their sins and sat down on the right hand of the majesty on high. Ah, what a relief! #2: Academics are very important to me as well....I have a master's degree myself, and I always make sure they do their homework, except in case of death or aberrations of the highest order. I haven't researched how Bethany compares academically to other schools, but I know that my 2nd graders are super readers (we read the King James version at home), they got great scores on their latest report cards for reading and math, and their teacher is always helping them to progress in math proficiency. She uses class dojo so we always know what is going on. I looked at the research questions posed to the students as part of their recent biography project and thought, wow, they are not pulling any punches with these 2nd graders! #3: CHAPEL!!!...OK I kind of already covered this in #1, but I love sitting in Friday chapel with my kids. It's the most special thing in the world to sit there with your kids and celebrate Jesus together. What could be better? There's something calming and humbling and fundamentally right about bowing with your children to a Being so vastly superior to us that we are ALL just children before Him. Stop worrying about everything and just go to Friday chapel with your kids. You won't regret it. #4: So, after some dumb decisions on my part, I got myself into a bind and needed Bethany to help me out of it. I didn't promise them a good Yelp review, or threaten them with a bad Yelp review; I just begged them to help me and they did. And now I am saying thank you!!! #5: If God is real, miracles are possible. This is not a formula for you to get a promotion, but after I stepped out on a limb financially for Bethany, and gave up of some of my pig-headed pride, I got my first promotion in a very long time. Just saying. #6: The racial diversity. Yes, we've been there more than a year now and I love the diversity. Instead of a natural tribe, we're trying to be a Jesus tribe. That's the best kind of tribe, after all. When you have racial diversity, it helps to keep the focus on our primary identity as children of the King, rather than on secondary identities such as race.  [Gal 3:28 KJV] 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. Nuff said.  Obviously, there have been minor issues along the way, but just by communicating with teachers and staff we've been able to get past all obstacles. I must also give a shout-out to my amazing wife who found this amazing school, back when I was just bumbling along with the assumption that all our kids would just go to the school across the street from us (which is a good school but it's not Bethany). Thanks honey, you are the best! In conclusion, Bethany is worth it to me. I will work extra. I will drive farther. I don't get a do-over with these precious little kids, and these are their formative years. I'm not dogmatic on the public school / homeschool / private school question, so don't worry, because I'm not judging you. But I strongly believe Bethany is where God wants me to bring my kids, and I commend this school to you for prayerful consideration as well. God bless you! read more

This is a great school! Our daughter is now in 1st grade. She has been attending since pre-k. This school offers a curriculum that challenges the students at every age. The children are kept active in a healthy, fun way. An added bonus is that since this is a Christian school, they do teach the children how to become responsible, productive citizens through good morals and values. Check it out! Many parents that send their children do not even attend church, but they appreciate the hard work, curriculum and love that is poured into their children's lives. read more

Seems to be run by a non-logical, dictatorial administrator. Not for children who are very active and/or still have tantrums (church school?). Also, not sensitive to working parents- there is no provision for kids who cannot go on field trips to stay at the school. Teachers are great but seem to feel very uneasy, insecure. read more

This school has been a real blessing for our family. We started in public and we saw such a dramatic change in our daughter. She really thrived in the Bethany environment. read more

Our 3 and 1/2 year old daughter started at this amazing school for the summer and can't wait to attend the Fall session. Our family (especially our daughter) is head over heels for this school as truly it has been a blessing beyond measure on so many levels! Every teacher (Mrs. Lesile, Mrs. Glori, Miss Kelly, Mrs. Tracee, Mrs. Jodie, Mrs. Shirley, Mrs. Heather, etc.) so far has gone over and beyond to make my daughter feel at home. Additionally, the returning parents have been so welcoming and encouraging as well. Truly this is the school we prayed for and I would strongly invite you to take a tour with Mrs. Hill (Preschool Director Extraordinaire) and/or Mrs. Fisher (the most friendliest Preschool Administrative Assistant) as you will have no doubt this is the right place for your child to thrive spiritually, academically, socially, and creatively. We are so blessed to be part of the Bethany Preschool School family! Oh and Pastor Cook is a hoot! If I did not already attend a phenomenal church he would have my membership. This school is a perfect 10! read more

We absolutely love Bethany! Our two boys have attended two years now (preschool and elementary), and we've are blown away by how much they have learned. The school goes above and beyond to tailor the learning process for every child. Academics are a high priority, but it seems that they have PLENTY of play time for creative and physical activities. Games are commonly used for learning in preschool, and the information really sticks with my younger son. We attended two other preschools before coming here, and the difference has been night and day. The class sizes are small and well run - the students show respect for the teachers and principal (Pastor Cook). Definitely five stars across the board. read more