In Their Own Words: Why Families Choose and Stay at Eastern Christian

We at EC get to see behind the scenes of most programs and events and witness the impacts on our students’ lives. From the classroom, to chapel, to athletics and other extra-curriculars, those on staff and those who volunteer understand the high standards that EC holds in all areas of student life.

But without immersing yourself in the community for years, how can you be sure that EC accomplishes what it sets out to do? How can parents know that EC is a place that will help their child fulfill who God calls them to be?

One of the best ways to understand the EC experience is to hear directly from those living it. Below are a few powerful stories from members of our school community.

A Parent’s Perspective: Seta Zartarian

Seta Zartarian, a parent of two EC students, shares:

“The teachers are incredibly graceful, kind, and dedicated — I truly feel like they care about each child as an individual.The school provides a safe, loving, and nurturing environment where my kids feel secure and supported. The academic standards are high, and I’ve been impressed with the level of education and how much my children are learning. I appreciate that my kids are being shaped not just intellectually, but also morally and spiritually.

It’s a Christ-centered school, which is very important to our family. My kids are learning about Jesus daily which is very important. In a time when strong values seem harder to find in the US, Eastern Christian is a place where Christian values are taught and lived out — and that matters deeply to us, coming from a different cultural environment. It means a lot to us being part of a school community where other families share the same beliefs and values — it creates a strong sense of unity and belonging, and less worrying about what my kid will hear and learn.

Overall, I’m confident that Eastern Christian is helping to build both the hearts and minds of my children — and that’s exactly what I want in a school. Academics are important, but they’re not everything.”

A Student’s Experience: Sydney, Class of 2025

Sydney reflects:

“I am most thankful for how EC surrounded me with a Christian community which could uplift me in both my faith but also life. It provided me with genuine friends and relationships, along with a community of teachers who genuinely cared about your success in academics and your faith.”

A Story of Renewal: Valerie, Class of 2025

Valerie shares:

“My experience at EC is something that I wouldn’t trade for any other school. I came from a public school where I struggled so much with social anxiety due to bullying. I transferred to EC in 9th grade and coming in, I was terrified, but the amazing community quickly helped me open up. I am thankful for the opportunity that EC gave me to help me grow socially, spiritually, and mentally through the family-like community.”

Adding testament to these strong words is the fact that Eastern Christian is the oldest and largest Christian school in New Jersey – a legacy we are proud of and one that we believe speaks to decades of delivering on our promises.

We do not have Christian in our name by accident. Our commitment to Christ is woven into every classroom, every program, and every event. Eastern Christian is not just a place where students learn. It is a place where they are known, loved, and guided toward the life God has for them.

If you’re looking for the best Christian school in the area, we encourage you to explore EC!